It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.
The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, “Surely this was a righteous man.” When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
The Passover is drawing to a close. The lifeless body of Jesus was taken off the cross and placed in a borrowed tomb......
Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea, and he himself was waiting for the kingdom of God. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.
The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Friday, April 6, 2012
This is the Lord's Passover!
Now you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month. Then the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it at twilight. And they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses where they eat it. Then they shall eat the flesh on that night; roasted in fire, with unleavened bread and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. Do not eat it raw, nor boiled at all with water, but roasted in fire—its head with its legs and its entrails. You shall let none of it remain until morning, and what remains of it until morning you shall burn with fire. And thus you shall eat it: with a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord’s Passover.
This very evening as the full Moon rises over the eastern horizon and the Sun sinks behind the trees, it is the Lord's Passover.
Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
Tonight I will escape the cares of this world and find my way to the hayfield. I will remember the terrible wages of sin, and the One who bought my freedom. As John proclaimed from the River Jordan, "Behold! The Lamb of God! Who takes away the sin of the world!" I will proclaim in my heart; Behold! the Lamb of God that was slain for me!
Take time this Passover Night to remember the One who died for you.
This very evening as the full Moon rises over the eastern horizon and the Sun sinks behind the trees, it is the Lord's Passover.
Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
Tonight I will escape the cares of this world and find my way to the hayfield. I will remember the terrible wages of sin, and the One who bought my freedom. As John proclaimed from the River Jordan, "Behold! The Lamb of God! Who takes away the sin of the world!" I will proclaim in my heart; Behold! the Lamb of God that was slain for me!
Take time this Passover Night to remember the One who died for you.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
BRING THE LAMB INTO THE HOUSE!!!!!
Now the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying, "This month shall be your beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year to you. Speak to all the congregation of Israel, saying: 'On the tenth of this month every man shall take for himself a lamb, according to the house of his father, a lamb for a household."
Exodus 12
As the sun sets tonight so begins the tenth day of the first month. Jesus was Only days away from the cross. In the morning He would instruct His friends to go get for Him a Donkey and young colt. Jesus would enter Jerusalem and make His way to the Temple, His Father's house.
The Lamb is in the house, being examined for four days. The Lamb will be found perfect, without spot or blemish, an acceptable sacrifice. His shed blood will wash away my sin and make me white as snow.
Exodus 12
As the sun sets tonight so begins the tenth day of the first month. Jesus was Only days away from the cross. In the morning He would instruct His friends to go get for Him a Donkey and young colt. Jesus would enter Jerusalem and make His way to the Temple, His Father's house.
The Lamb is in the house, being examined for four days. The Lamb will be found perfect, without spot or blemish, an acceptable sacrifice. His shed blood will wash away my sin and make me white as snow.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Perspective
Sometimes in the middle of the battle it helps to gain some perspective. I often get so caught up in the day to day rush that I loose sight of what really matters. This time of year I stop and orient myself by contemplating what Jesus was doing as He approached Jerusalem to be crucified. It puts my struggles into perspective.
Passover is fast approaching, Jesus had turned his face towards Jerusalem and was passing through Jericho. The crowds were growing larger as word spread that Jesus was in town. The streets of Jericho were already filled with travelers on their way to the temple for Passover. It must have been a festive atmosphere, as Jesus pushed through the crowded city. A local tax collector named Zacchaeus was desperate to catch a glimpse of Jesus. He climbed up into a tree to see over the throng of people and as Jesus passed by he stopped and called to Zacchaeus by name, "Zacchaeus! hurry down, I'm spending the night at your house."
Wow! Jesus loves a desperate heart! Jesus responds to a repentant heart! "Today salvation has come to this house...." and in only a few days SALVATION will be made available to all mankind. Jesus was on His way to redeem that which was lost.
Passover is only seven days away. Jesus never lost sight of why He was on His way to Jerusalem. A little man in a tree who was hated by many, despised by all, yet loved by Jesus.
Passover is fast approaching, Jesus had turned his face towards Jerusalem and was passing through Jericho. The crowds were growing larger as word spread that Jesus was in town. The streets of Jericho were already filled with travelers on their way to the temple for Passover. It must have been a festive atmosphere, as Jesus pushed through the crowded city. A local tax collector named Zacchaeus was desperate to catch a glimpse of Jesus. He climbed up into a tree to see over the throng of people and as Jesus passed by he stopped and called to Zacchaeus by name, "Zacchaeus! hurry down, I'm spending the night at your house."
Wow! Jesus loves a desperate heart! Jesus responds to a repentant heart! "Today salvation has come to this house...." and in only a few days SALVATION will be made available to all mankind. Jesus was on His way to redeem that which was lost.
Passover is only seven days away. Jesus never lost sight of why He was on His way to Jerusalem. A little man in a tree who was hated by many, despised by all, yet loved by Jesus.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
WATCHING
Friday evening as the sun set in Jerusalem a new month began. A few days earlier aviv barley was reported by Karaite Jews in the fields of Israel.
So what does this matter to believers in America today?
Why should we care about an archaic calendar and Jewish traditions that we know nor care little about?
Jesus Himself gives us a clue, "Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”
Jesus was talking to His disciples about His return. His admonition in a word: WATCH!
I'm watching. Are you?
So what does this matter to believers in America today?
Why should we care about an archaic calendar and Jewish traditions that we know nor care little about?
Jesus Himself gives us a clue, "Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”
Jesus was talking to His disciples about His return. His admonition in a word: WATCH!
I'm watching. Are you?
Monday, March 19, 2012
Welcome to Monday!!
ל Lamed
89 Forever, O Lord,
Your word is settled in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
You established the earth, and it abides.
91 They continue this day according to Your ordinances,
For all are Your servants.
92 Unless Your law had been my delight,
I would then have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget Your precepts,
For by them You have given me life.
94 I am Yours, save me;
For I have sought Your precepts.
95 The wicked wait for me to destroy me,
But I will consider Your testimonies.
96 I have seen the consummation of all perfection,
But Your commandment is exceedingly broad.
Your word is settled in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
You established the earth, and it abides.
91 They continue this day according to Your ordinances,
For all are Your servants.
92 Unless Your law had been my delight,
I would then have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget Your precepts,
For by them You have given me life.
94 I am Yours, save me;
For I have sought Your precepts.
95 The wicked wait for me to destroy me,
But I will consider Your testimonies.
96 I have seen the consummation of all perfection,
But Your commandment is exceedingly broad.
Good Monday Morning!
This is the section of Psalms 119 I’m in this week. It is the Hebrew letter “Lamed”. This letter represented a shepherd’s staff and means to teach, bind, or yoke. It can also mean to move toward.
This is going to be great Psalm to meditate on this week. We are leading up to Passover and at the beginning of the year I decided to place a high emphasis on acknowledging the Feast’s of the Lord this year in my personal life. As the Feast draws near and I begin to think about what Jesus was going through at this point in His life, I am so thankful that God provided a perfect sacrifice for Me.
Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!
1 John 3:1
Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!
1 John 3:1
Thursday, March 15, 2012
The Harvest
This morning as I stepped off of my front porch, I looked up and noticed a nearly half moon directly overhead. Only seven or eight more days until the beginning of a new month according to the Hebrew calendar. Not just any month, but possibly the first month of the year, Nisan. I say possibly because the Hebrew calendar is a lunar calendar and every few years an extra month is added to keep the months in sync. with the seasons. It is why we add an extra day every fourth year we call leap year. The Hebrew month we are now in is Adar and if an extra month is added it is called Adar II or Adar Bet. Modern Jews use a set formula to determine this but in Jesus’ day it was determined by the barley fields. As the month of Adar drew to a close, the barley was watched closely for ripening heads of grain. If ripe barley was not found then the year would be extended another month. Why was ripe barley so crucial for the New Year? Nisan was the month of Passover and the first three of seven very important appointments with Yahwey (God). We refer to these appointments as the feasts, but they were not manmade events, but established by Yahweh as appointed times. One of the first feasts is the “feast of first fruits” and requires the first fruits of the harvest to be presented to the Lord. Does that sound familiar? For New Testament Believers this idea of “first fruits” is found several times in the New Testament.For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ's at His coming.Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. I Corinthians 15:22-24
This feast of first fruits occurs on the “morrow after the Sabbath” which is Sunday morning during Passover. This is great! On that morning as the priests were waving the sheaves of barley in the Temple, The resurrected Jesus was being glorified before the throne of His Father! Christ the Firstfruit! Wow! Sorry I got side tracked…..
There are still Jews today who follow this ancient custom. They are known as Karaite Jews and they can be found examining the barley fields around Jerusalem this time of year. They even have a web-site that they post the condition of the barley harvest.
Well I said all that to say this….. As I gazed upon the Moon this morning and anticipate Passover this year I wonder about the harvest. One day the master of the harvest will call forth the reapers, and as the above scripture states, “Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father…”
Monday, March 12, 2012
כ Kaf
81 I long for Your salvation;
I put my hope in Your word.
82 My eyes grow weary
looking for what You have promised;
I ask, “When will You comfort me?”
83 Though I have become like a wineskin dried by smoke,
I do not forget Your statutes.
84 How many days must Your servant wait?
When will You execute judgment on my persecutors?
85 The arrogant have dug pits for me;
they violate Your instruction.
86 All Your commands are true;
people persecute me with lies—help me!
87 They almost ended my life on earth,
but I did not abandon Your precepts.
88 Give me life in accordance with Your faithful love,
and I will obey the decree You have spoken.
82Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me?
83For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget thy statutes.
84How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me?
85The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law.
86All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.
87They had almost consumed me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts.
88Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth.
This will be a great scripture to meditate on this week. I printed it off on a small card to keep with me. Working through Psalms 119 has been awesome. Looking forward to a great week.
81 I long for Your salvation;
I put my hope in Your word.
82 My eyes grow weary
looking for what You have promised;
I ask, “When will You comfort me?”
83 Though I have become like a wineskin dried by smoke,
I do not forget Your statutes.
84 How many days must Your servant wait?
When will You execute judgment on my persecutors?
85 The arrogant have dug pits for me;
they violate Your instruction.
86 All Your commands are true;
people persecute me with lies—help me!
87 They almost ended my life on earth,
but I did not abandon Your precepts.
88 Give me life in accordance with Your faithful love,
and I will obey the decree You have spoken.
“KAF” or “CAPH” is this weeks Hebrew letter. The image of an open hand represents this ancient letter. It’s meaning is to bend, subdue, tame or open.
As I read this Psalm I can feel the writer’s desperation. I like the old King James version of this Psalm because it conveys the weariness of the psalmist’s condition.
81My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word. 82Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me?
83For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget thy statutes.
84How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me?
85The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law.
86All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.
87They had almost consumed me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts.
88Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth.
This will be a great scripture to meditate on this week. I printed it off on a small card to keep with me. Working through Psalms 119 has been awesome. Looking forward to a great week.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
י Yod
73 Your hands made me and formed me;
give me understanding
so that I can learn Your commands.
74 Those who fear You will see me and rejoice,
for I put my hope in Your word.
75 I know, LORD, that Your judgments are just
and that You have afflicted me fairly.
76 May Your faithful love comfort me
as You promised Your servant.
77 May Your compassion come to me
so that I may live,
for Your instruction is my delight.
78 Let the arrogant be put to shame
for slandering me with lies;
I will meditate on Your precepts.
79 Let those who fear You,
those who know Your decrees, turn to me.
80 May my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes
so that I will not be put to shame.
The Hebrew letter “Yod” is derived from a picture of an arm with an open hand. It means to make, throw or work. The first verse of this section proclaims the Yod. “Your hands made me and formed me.”
Is there anyone who knows me better than God?
He is my creator and savior, could anyone love me more?
He sees my future and knows my past, should I trust Him?
Why do I find it so difficult to obey?
Why do I fret and struggle to find contentment?
This week as I have read this section of Psalms 119, I have been challenged to acknowledge my creator. It has kept life in the right perspective.
73 Your hands made me and formed me;
give me understanding
so that I can learn Your commands.
74 Those who fear You will see me and rejoice,
for I put my hope in Your word.
75 I know, LORD, that Your judgments are just
and that You have afflicted me fairly.
76 May Your faithful love comfort me
as You promised Your servant.
77 May Your compassion come to me
so that I may live,
for Your instruction is my delight.
78 Let the arrogant be put to shame
for slandering me with lies;
I will meditate on Your precepts.
79 Let those who fear You,
those who know Your decrees, turn to me.
80 May my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes
so that I will not be put to shame.
The Hebrew letter “Yod” is derived from a picture of an arm with an open hand. It means to make, throw or work. The first verse of this section proclaims the Yod. “Your hands made me and formed me.”
Is there anyone who knows me better than God?
He is my creator and savior, could anyone love me more?
He sees my future and knows my past, should I trust Him?
Why do I find it so difficult to obey?
Why do I fret and struggle to find contentment?
This week as I have read this section of Psalms 119, I have been challenged to acknowledge my creator. It has kept life in the right perspective.
Monday, February 27, 2012
ט Tet
65 LORD, You have treated Your servant well,
just as You promised.
66 Teach me good judgment and discernment,
for I rely on Your commands.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I keep Your word.
68 You are good, and You do what is good;
teach me Your statutes.
69 The arrogant have smeared me with lies,
but I obey Your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are hard and insensitive,
but I delight in Your instruction.
71 It was good for me to be afflicted
so that I could learn Your statutes.
72 Instruction from Your lips is better for me
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.
ט Tet, is the Hebrew letter whose ancient symbol was a basket. It means to hold, surround or contain. It can also mean mud or clay because that is what ancient containers were often made of.
The writer of this Psalm recognizes that affliction can be God’s teacher. Obedience is more valuable than gold and silver. God is good, all the time…… His instructions surround us and protect us. His love contains us.
I will Pour this psalm into my life this week and let Him teach me good judgment and discernment.
65 LORD, You have treated Your servant well,
just as You promised.
66 Teach me good judgment and discernment,
for I rely on Your commands.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I keep Your word.
68 You are good, and You do what is good;
teach me Your statutes.
69 The arrogant have smeared me with lies,
but I obey Your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are hard and insensitive,
but I delight in Your instruction.
71 It was good for me to be afflicted
so that I could learn Your statutes.
72 Instruction from Your lips is better for me
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.
ט Tet, is the Hebrew letter whose ancient symbol was a basket. It means to hold, surround or contain. It can also mean mud or clay because that is what ancient containers were often made of.
The writer of this Psalm recognizes that affliction can be God’s teacher. Obedience is more valuable than gold and silver. God is good, all the time…… His instructions surround us and protect us. His love contains us.
I will Pour this psalm into my life this week and let Him teach me good judgment and discernment.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
I Want That Heart!!!
ח Khet
57 The LORD is my portion;
I have promised to keep Your words.
58 I have sought Your favor with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to Your promise.
59 I thought about my ways
and turned my steps back to Your decrees.
60 I hurried, not hesitating
to keep Your commands.
61 Though the ropes of the wicked
were wrapped around me,
I did not forget Your instruction.
62 I rise at midnight to thank You
for Your righteous judgments.
63 I am a friend to all who fear You,
to those who keep Your precepts.
64 LORD, the earth is filled with Your faithful love;
teach me Your statutes.
As with most of the sections in Psalms 119, my response to God’s commands, instructions, precepts, statutes, judgments, and words are the focus. Each day as I meditate on these Psalms I am challenged to act on God’s commandments. The verse that keeps running through my mind is 1st John 2:3-5
Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says, "I know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
57 The LORD is my portion;
I have promised to keep Your words.
58 I have sought Your favor with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to Your promise.
59 I thought about my ways
and turned my steps back to Your decrees.
60 I hurried, not hesitating
to keep Your commands.
61 Though the ropes of the wicked
were wrapped around me,
I did not forget Your instruction.
62 I rise at midnight to thank You
for Your righteous judgments.
63 I am a friend to all who fear You,
to those who keep Your precepts.
64 LORD, the earth is filled with Your faithful love;
teach me Your statutes.
As with most of the sections in Psalms 119, my response to God’s commands, instructions, precepts, statutes, judgments, and words are the focus. Each day as I meditate on these Psalms I am challenged to act on God’s commandments. The verse that keeps running through my mind is 1st John 2:3-5
Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says, "I know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
The writer of these Psalms does not convey an attitude of dutiful obedience, given begrudgingly. His heart is one of joyful, willing obedience, longing to please the Father. I want that heart!
I promised
I sought
I thought
I hurried
I remembered
I rise to thank
I am a friend
Friday, February 24, 2012
My Lot In Life.....
ח Khet
57 The LORD is my portion;
I have promised to keep Your words.
58 I have sought Your favor with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to Your promise.
59 I thought about my ways
and turned my steps back to Your decrees.
60 I hurried, not hesitating
to keep Your commands.
61 Though the ropes of the wicked
were wrapped around me,
I did not forget Your instruction.
62 I rise at midnight to thank You
for Your righteous judgments.
63 I am a friend to all who fear You,
to those who keep Your precepts.
64 LORD, the earth is filled with Your faithful love;
teach me Your statutes.
57 The LORD is my portion;
I have promised to keep Your words.
58 I have sought Your favor with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to Your promise.
59 I thought about my ways
and turned my steps back to Your decrees.
60 I hurried, not hesitating
to keep Your commands.
61 Though the ropes of the wicked
were wrapped around me,
I did not forget Your instruction.
62 I rise at midnight to thank You
for Your righteous judgments.
63 I am a friend to all who fear You,
to those who keep Your precepts.
64 LORD, the earth is filled with Your faithful love;
teach me Your statutes.
“That’s my lot in life.”
We usually hear this said in a negative context about someone’s suffering. The word “lot” is a shortened version of allotment. The word “portion” in verse 57 of Psalms 119 comes from a Hebrew word that can also be translated “lot” or “division”.
As a Believer God is my lot in life. He is my portion.
I love busy airports, crowded shopping malls, sometimes even traffic.
Who are all these people?
What’s their story?
This week I had the opportunity to spend several hours watching huge crowds of people at Mardi Gras. Each morning I read this section of Psalms and then pondered on my “lot” in life and observed thousands of people pursue pleasure and I wondered about their “lot” in life.
It seems we spend so much of our energy trying to increase our “lot”. The American Dream is to improve our “lot in life” to the point of total self-sufficiency, even material excess.
Reading and meditating on this scripture has made me realize that God is my Portion and pleasing Him should be my focus and pursuit.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
EBay !!!!
ז Zayin
49 Remember Your word to Your servant;
You have given me hope through it.
50 This is my comfort in my affliction:
Your promise has given me life.
51 The arrogant constantly ridicule me,
but I do not turn away from Your instruction.
52 LORD, I remember Your judgments from long ago
and find comfort.
53 Rage seizes me because of the wicked
who reject Your instruction.
54 Your statutes are the theme of my song
during my earthly life.
55 Yahweh, I remember Your name in the night,
and I obey Your instruction.
56 This is my practice:
I obey Your precepts.
49 Remember Your word to Your servant;
You have given me hope through it.
50 This is my comfort in my affliction:
Your promise has given me life.
51 The arrogant constantly ridicule me,
but I do not turn away from Your instruction.
52 LORD, I remember Your judgments from long ago
and find comfort.
53 Rage seizes me because of the wicked
who reject Your instruction.
54 Your statutes are the theme of my song
during my earthly life.
55 Yahweh, I remember Your name in the night,
and I obey Your instruction.
56 This is my practice:
I obey Your precepts.
I was browsing EBay last night, something I have never really done before. I got interested in searching for random things from my childhood. Duncan Yo-yo’s, GI Joe, Hot Wheels, and The names of the towns I grew up near. Just a note on that last one, be careful about searching Hooker on EBay. I was amazed by what I found available. Melissa will probably put a stop to my shopping down memory lane because I’ve got some really cool items on the way to my door step. I found a Mennonite Missions Board penny bank like the one I used to put my Missions offering in when I was little. A used post card with the Church my Mom and Dad were married in on it. A 1959 Liberal Kansas, Pancake Day Pin in excellent condition. I resisted purchasing the used post card from the Tumbleweed Motel on Highway 54 in Liberal Kansas, from 1960. I had fun and it sure brought back a lot of childhood memories.
Memories are powerful. They stir emotions and often move us to action. REMEMBER what God has done in your life, Open His word and search for the treasures from your spiritual childhood. Even touch the scars from battles past and REMEMBER who brought the victory during those tough times. REMEMBER the manger, the cross, the empty tomb. Let the Spirit stir your memories, then get up, strap on the armor, pick up the sword and get in the fight.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Things to REMEMBER....
“Say this to the Israelites: Yahweh, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is my name forever; this is how I am to be remembered in every generation.
Exodus 3:14-16
Exodus 3:14-16
“Remember this day when you came out of Egypt, out of the place of slavery, for the LORD brought you out of here by the strength of His hand. Nothing leavened may be eaten.
Exodus 13:2-4
Exodus 13:2-4
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy
Exodus 20:7-9
Exodus 20:7-9
Be careful to remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy as the LORD your God has commanded you.
Deuteronomy 5:11-13
Deuteronomy 5:11-13
Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God brought you out of there with a strong hand and an outstretched arm.
Deuteronomy 5:14-16
Deuteronomy 5:14-16
Remember that you were slaves in Egypt; carefully follow these statutes.
Deuteronomy 16:11-13
Deuteronomy 16:11-13
All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD. All the families of the nations will bow down before you
Psalm 22:26-28
Psalm 22:26-28
Yahweh, I remember Your name in the night, and I obey Your instruction.
Psalm 119:54-56
Psalm 119:54-56
Remember what happened long ago, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and no one is like Me.
Isaiah 46:8-10
Isaiah 46:8-10
Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20
Matthew 28:19-20
Remember Lot’s wife!
Luke 17:31-33
Luke 17:31-33
“REMEMBERING” is a key part of “OBEYING”.
Failing to remember was a big problem with the children of Israel and it’s a problem with the church.
I sense that God will be jogging our memory as the days grow darker and darker. I am praying for a sensitive spirit and making sure I have oil in my lamp as I wait to hear that trumpet.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
ז ZAYIN
49 Remember Your word to Your servant;
You have given me hope through it.
50 This is my comfort in my affliction:
Your promise has given me life.
51 The arrogant constantly ridicule me,
but I do not turn away from Your instruction.
52 LORD, I remember Your judgments from long ago
and find comfort.
53 Rage seizes me because of the wicked
who reject Your instruction.
54 Your statutes are the theme of my song
during my earthly life.[h]
55 Yahweh, I remember Your name in the night,
and I obey Your instruction.
56 This is my practice:
I obey Your precepts.
REMEMBER !!!!!
Zayin is the Hebrew letter this week. The ancient pictograph for this letter was a agricultural tool similar to a hoe or plow head. It can mean to harvest, feed, or crop. It also was used to mean cut, engrave, or mark. The Hebrew word "remember" is Zakar and starts with this letter.
God repeatedly tells us to REMEMBER! Through out the Bible. This is because we have a tendency to FORGET. Does this sound familiar parents!?
This is the REMEMBER section of Psalms 119. I will search his word this week to find the commands to REMEMBER.
49 Remember Your word to Your servant;
You have given me hope through it.
50 This is my comfort in my affliction:
Your promise has given me life.
51 The arrogant constantly ridicule me,
but I do not turn away from Your instruction.
52 LORD, I remember Your judgments from long ago
and find comfort.
53 Rage seizes me because of the wicked
who reject Your instruction.
54 Your statutes are the theme of my song
during my earthly life.[h]
55 Yahweh, I remember Your name in the night,
and I obey Your instruction.
56 This is my practice:
I obey Your precepts.
REMEMBER !!!!!
Zayin is the Hebrew letter this week. The ancient pictograph for this letter was a agricultural tool similar to a hoe or plow head. It can mean to harvest, feed, or crop. It also was used to mean cut, engrave, or mark. The Hebrew word "remember" is Zakar and starts with this letter.
God repeatedly tells us to REMEMBER! Through out the Bible. This is because we have a tendency to FORGET. Does this sound familiar parents!?
This is the REMEMBER section of Psalms 119. I will search his word this week to find the commands to REMEMBER.
Friday, February 10, 2012
ו Vav
41 Let Your faithful love come to me, LORD,
Your salvation, as You promised.
42 Then I can answer the one who taunts me,
for I trust in Your word.
43 Never take the word of truth from my mouth,
for I hope in Your judgments.
44 I will always obey Your instruction,
forever and ever.
45 I will walk freely in an open place
because I seek Your precepts.
46 I will speak of Your decrees before kings
and not be ashamed.
47 I delight in Your commands,
which I love.
48 I will lift up my hands to Your commands,
which I love,
and I will meditate on Your statutes.
41 Let Your faithful love come to me, LORD,
Your salvation, as You promised.
42 Then I can answer the one who taunts me,
for I trust in Your word.
43 Never take the word of truth from my mouth,
for I hope in Your judgments.
44 I will always obey Your instruction,
forever and ever.
45 I will walk freely in an open place
because I seek Your precepts.
46 I will speak of Your decrees before kings
and not be ashamed.
47 I delight in Your commands,
which I love.
48 I will lift up my hands to Your commands,
which I love,
and I will meditate on Your statutes.
Good Morning!
I can, I trust, I hope, I will, I will, I seek, I will, I delight, I Love, I will, I love, I will........
Do you sense a focused, purpose in the writer's language? It's as if he is driving a stake in the ground, marking his claim. I want that in my heart.
As I read through my Psalms this morning there are so many other cares crowding my mind. It is hard to keep my focus on what God wants to say to me. I like starting my day in the Word, but sometimes the expectation of what lies ahead makes it difficult to soak in and ponder on Him. When I can pull it off; watching the sun slowly set at the end of the day from the tail gate of my old truck is my favorite time with the Lord. I haven’t been able to do that this week and I need it.
Tonight I’m meeting with a small group of men in a secluded bunk house. Our purpose is to spend the night digging into God’s word, praying for each other and worshiping together. I have been looking forward to a night like this for many months. The scripture above from the Psalms captures the longing of my heart.
Find your quiet place every day. It will change your walk.
Find a small group of Believers who will walk with you and share the journey. It will maintain your walk.
Find out where God wants you to go in life, it will give direction to your walk.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Reggie White, The Minister of Defense
<iframe width="640" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/UINyN4HInSI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Check out this video link. It is very interesting. I am wondering if God is not drawing hearts back to the bedrock of our faith in these last days. My heart is questioning many of the traditions we adhere to so tightly that can not be supported by scripture.
Check out this video link. It is very interesting. I am wondering if God is not drawing hearts back to the bedrock of our faith in these last days. My heart is questioning many of the traditions we adhere to so tightly that can not be supported by scripture.
Hang Your Hat Here!!
ו Vav
41 Let Your faithful love come to me, LORD,
Your salvation, as You promised.
42 Then I can answer the one who taunts me,
for I trust in Your word.
43 Never take the word of truth from my mouth,
for I hope in Your judgments.
44 I will always obey Your instruction,
forever and ever.
45 I will walk freely in an open place
because I seek Your precepts.
46 I will speak of Your decrees before kings
and not be ashamed.
47 I delight in Your commands,
which I love.
48 I will lift up my hands to Your commands,
which I love,
and will meditate on Your statutes.
New week, new letter…….. Vav
This Hebrew letter finds it’s origins in the symbol for a tent peg or stake. It doesn’t have an English letter associated with it. It’s symbolic meaning was to secure, add or hook.
Last week I did not post as often as I normally do. I really don’t have an excuse. it was a challenging week and I told myself I was too busy to stop and spend the time to put my thoughts on paper. The reality is the opposite, my week was challenging because I was not making time in my schedule to collect my thoughts and purposefully organize onto the page what God was teaching me. I was reading and meditating on the Bible passages each day and praying through my prayer list, but there is just something about taking the time to reflect and write down what God is doing with me. Getting thoughts out of your mind and onto a page is more valuable than I realized. Try it for yourself and see if it doesn’t add a new dimension to your bible study.
So here it is for this week. VAV! I will hang my hat on His Word this week.
41 Let Your faithful love come to me, LORD,
Your salvation, as You promised.
42 Then I can answer the one who taunts me,
for I trust in Your word.
43 Never take the word of truth from my mouth,
for I hope in Your judgments.
44 I will always obey Your instruction,
forever and ever.
45 I will walk freely in an open place
because I seek Your precepts.
46 I will speak of Your decrees before kings
and not be ashamed.
47 I delight in Your commands,
which I love.
48 I will lift up my hands to Your commands,
which I love,
and will meditate on Your statutes.
New week, new letter…….. Vav
This Hebrew letter finds it’s origins in the symbol for a tent peg or stake. It doesn’t have an English letter associated with it. It’s symbolic meaning was to secure, add or hook.
Last week I did not post as often as I normally do. I really don’t have an excuse. it was a challenging week and I told myself I was too busy to stop and spend the time to put my thoughts on paper. The reality is the opposite, my week was challenging because I was not making time in my schedule to collect my thoughts and purposefully organize onto the page what God was teaching me. I was reading and meditating on the Bible passages each day and praying through my prayer list, but there is just something about taking the time to reflect and write down what God is doing with me. Getting thoughts out of your mind and onto a page is more valuable than I realized. Try it for yourself and see if it doesn’t add a new dimension to your bible study.
So here it is for this week. VAV! I will hang my hat on His Word this week.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Get Your Map out!!!
ה He
33 Teach me, LORD, the meaning of Your statutes,
and I will always keep them.
34 Help me understand Your instruction,
and I will obey it.
and follow it with all my heart.
35 Help me stay on the path of Your commands,
for I take pleasure in it.
36 Turn my heart to Your decrees
and not to material gain.
37 Turn my eyes
from looking at what is worthless;
give me life in Your ways.
38 Confirm what You said to Your servant,
for it produces reverence for You.
39 Turn away the disgrace I dread;
indeed, Your judgments are good.
40 How I long for Your precepts!
Give me life through Your righteousness.
Good Morning! I’m not in the Hay field this morning. Had to get an early start and get to work.
I’ve sat around hundreds of campfires with my kids and taught them that the Bible is like a treasure map. We must study it and carefully follow each instruction to get to the treasure. If we neglect it on our quest we will quickly become lost and confused. Getting back on track is sometimes difficult and often requires us to back track to the point where we left the right way. This illustration sometimes became a living example when we would get off the trail on the next days hike and become temporarily lost.
So what is the treasure? It is Jesus alive in our lives. The trail we must follow is His Truth.
The past several weeks in Psalms 119 has given me a new appreciation and passion for the map, His word. it has also challenged me. Am I willing to obey all His instructions? Do I recognize real treasure from fake treasure?
HEY! get your map out and find the WAY!
33 Teach me, LORD, the meaning of Your statutes,
and I will always keep them.
34 Help me understand Your instruction,
and I will obey it.
and follow it with all my heart.
35 Help me stay on the path of Your commands,
for I take pleasure in it.
36 Turn my heart to Your decrees
and not to material gain.
37 Turn my eyes
from looking at what is worthless;
give me life in Your ways.
38 Confirm what You said to Your servant,
for it produces reverence for You.
39 Turn away the disgrace I dread;
indeed, Your judgments are good.
40 How I long for Your precepts!
Give me life through Your righteousness.
Good Morning! I’m not in the Hay field this morning. Had to get an early start and get to work.
I’ve sat around hundreds of campfires with my kids and taught them that the Bible is like a treasure map. We must study it and carefully follow each instruction to get to the treasure. If we neglect it on our quest we will quickly become lost and confused. Getting back on track is sometimes difficult and often requires us to back track to the point where we left the right way. This illustration sometimes became a living example when we would get off the trail on the next days hike and become temporarily lost.
So what is the treasure? It is Jesus alive in our lives. The trail we must follow is His Truth.
The past several weeks in Psalms 119 has given me a new appreciation and passion for the map, His word. it has also challenged me. Am I willing to obey all His instructions? Do I recognize real treasure from fake treasure?
HEY! get your map out and find the WAY!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
HEY !!!!!!!!!
ה He
33 Teach me, LORD, the way of your decrees,
that I may follow it to the end.
34 Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law
and obey it with all my heart.
35 Direct me in the path of your commands,
for there I find delight.
36 Turn my heart toward your statutes
and not toward selfish gain.
37 Turn my eyes away from worthless things;
preserve my life according to your word.
38 Fulfill your promise to your servant,
so that you may be feared.
39 Take away the disgrace I dread,
for your laws are good.
40 How I long for your precepts!
In your righteousness preserve my life.
A New Week!!!!!
A New Letter!!!!
HEY, is our letter "E". If you rotate a capital "E" counter-clockwise, it looks much like the ancient symbol that later became HEY and eventually "E". It is a picture of a man with his arms out stretched and it's meaning was, look, behold, WOW!! Or HEY!
So the next time you yell "HEY!!" to get someone's attention, you're speaking Hebrew.
It's meaning was expanded to also symbolize breath, or a sigh. When you behold something spectacular you gasp, or sigh as a reaction. So here we go!
This week I will pour over Psalms 119:33-40. I will behold it and look at it. It will be as much a part of me as my very breath. It will be the lens that I view my life through this week......"teach me, turn my heart, turn my eyes, Oh Lord!"
33 Teach me, LORD, the way of your decrees,
that I may follow it to the end.
34 Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law
and obey it with all my heart.
35 Direct me in the path of your commands,
for there I find delight.
36 Turn my heart toward your statutes
and not toward selfish gain.
37 Turn my eyes away from worthless things;
preserve my life according to your word.
38 Fulfill your promise to your servant,
so that you may be feared.
39 Take away the disgrace I dread,
for your laws are good.
40 How I long for your precepts!
In your righteousness preserve my life.
A New Week!!!!!
A New Letter!!!!
HEY, is our letter "E". If you rotate a capital "E" counter-clockwise, it looks much like the ancient symbol that later became HEY and eventually "E". It is a picture of a man with his arms out stretched and it's meaning was, look, behold, WOW!! Or HEY!
So the next time you yell "HEY!!" to get someone's attention, you're speaking Hebrew.
It's meaning was expanded to also symbolize breath, or a sigh. When you behold something spectacular you gasp, or sigh as a reaction. So here we go!
This week I will pour over Psalms 119:33-40. I will behold it and look at it. It will be as much a part of me as my very breath. It will be the lens that I view my life through this week......"teach me, turn my heart, turn my eyes, Oh Lord!"
Friday, January 27, 2012
ד Daleth
25 I am laid low in the dust;
preserve my life according to your word.
26 I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;
teach me your decrees.
27 Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,
that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.
28 My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.
29 Keep me from deceitful ways;
be gracious to me and teach me your law.
30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I have set my heart on your laws.
31 I hold fast to your statutes, LORD;
do not let me be put to shame.
32 I run in the path of your commands,
for you have broadened my understanding.
It is a perfect morning! Cold crisp air, clear sky, a blanket of frost across the field, I love this kind of weather. I wish I had a small fire with bacon & eggs in a skillet and a small pot of hot coffee simmering over the coals. That settles it, I'm sleeping out tonight!
I've been digging deep into God's word and bugging several friends about what obedience is supposed to look like in the life of a believer. I focused in on the Sabbath because it seems to me a commandment that most Christians just completely ignore and don't really understand, myself included. meditating on Psalms 119:25-32 this week has has been like pouring fuel on a fire. God is teaching me and giving me understanding......... Now comes the huge challenge, can I obey?
25 I am laid low in the dust;
preserve my life according to your word.
26 I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;
teach me your decrees.
27 Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,
that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.
28 My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.
29 Keep me from deceitful ways;
be gracious to me and teach me your law.
30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I have set my heart on your laws.
31 I hold fast to your statutes, LORD;
do not let me be put to shame.
32 I run in the path of your commands,
for you have broadened my understanding.
It is a perfect morning! Cold crisp air, clear sky, a blanket of frost across the field, I love this kind of weather. I wish I had a small fire with bacon & eggs in a skillet and a small pot of hot coffee simmering over the coals. That settles it, I'm sleeping out tonight!
I've been digging deep into God's word and bugging several friends about what obedience is supposed to look like in the life of a believer. I focused in on the Sabbath because it seems to me a commandment that most Christians just completely ignore and don't really understand, myself included. meditating on Psalms 119:25-32 this week has has been like pouring fuel on a fire. God is teaching me and giving me understanding......... Now comes the huge challenge, can I obey?
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
HELP ME UNDERSTAND
It’s a pleasant morning, cool and damp, looks like we’ll get some rain today. I’m sitting on the tail-gate of my truck along the edge of the hay field, watching the eastern sky change colors as the sun begins to rise. I’m sorry I have not posted in a couple of days, but I have been asking folks I know about the Sabbath. I hope I am not coming across as some sort of zealot about this. I just need to get a peace about this before I can move on. So far I have not found anyone who can give me a solid, reasonable answer about why this commandment is just completely ignored. What I do get is lots of twisting and turning explanations, silence or obscure scripture references. Then I get trumped with the old, you’re legalistic about something that doesn’t matter. I think it matters, my heart is searching for answers and it’s telling me it matters. As I pray along with thousands of my fellow believers for spiritual revival, the issue of obedience stares me in the face and I know it matters.
Is anyone out there?
Does it bother anyone that we seem to be a people that just don’t really want to be obedient?
We want revival and blessings and purpose, without being inconvenienced…….
Can anyone help me?
25 My life is down in the dust;
give me life through Your word.
26 I told You about my life,
and You listened to me;
teach me Your statutes.
27 Help me understand
the meaning of Your precepts
so that I can meditate on Your wonders.
28 I am weary from grief;
strengthen me through Your word.
29 Keep me from the way of deceit
and graciously give me Your instruction.
30 I have chosen the way of truth;
I have set Your ordinances before me.
31 I cling to Your decrees;
LORD, do not put me to shame.
32 I pursue the way of Your commands,
for You broaden my understanding.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
The Door.....
ד Daleth
25 I am laid low in the dust;
preserve my life according to your word.
26 I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;
teach me your decrees.
27 Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,
that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.
28 My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.
29 Keep me from deceitful ways;
be gracious to me and teach me your law.
30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I have set my heart on your laws.
31 I hold fast to your statutes, LORD;
do not let me be put to shame.
32 I run in the path of your commands,
for you have broadened my understanding.
Daleth, this ancient Hebrew letter finds it's origins in the picture of a tent flap or a door. It can convey several meanings; to hang, like a tent flap hangs over an opening, to move back and forth or in and out, like someone coming and going through a door. The Root symbol is a door. This week as I meditate on Psalms 119:25-32 I am asking God to open doors into my life, shine His light of Truth into the closed up hiding places in my life.
Deuteronomy 6
4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[a] 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the door-frames of your houses and on your gates.
25 I am laid low in the dust;
preserve my life according to your word.
26 I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;
teach me your decrees.
27 Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,
that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.
28 My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.
29 Keep me from deceitful ways;
be gracious to me and teach me your law.
30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I have set my heart on your laws.
31 I hold fast to your statutes, LORD;
do not let me be put to shame.
32 I run in the path of your commands,
for you have broadened my understanding.
Daleth, this ancient Hebrew letter finds it's origins in the picture of a tent flap or a door. It can convey several meanings; to hang, like a tent flap hangs over an opening, to move back and forth or in and out, like someone coming and going through a door. The Root symbol is a door. This week as I meditate on Psalms 119:25-32 I am asking God to open doors into my life, shine His light of Truth into the closed up hiding places in my life.
Deuteronomy 6
4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[a] 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the door-frames of your houses and on your gates.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Exodus 20
The Ten Commandments
And God spoke all these words, saying:
1 “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. “You shall have no other gods before Me.
2 “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.
3 “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.
4 “ Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
5 “ Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you.
6 “You shall not murder.
7 “You shall not commit adultery.
8 “You shall not steal.
9 “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.”
Well here we are, the official "work" week is behind us and the weekend is here. It is 6:00 am and all is quiet on a Saturday morning in my house. As usual I find myself wondering what it would be like to truly observe the Sabbath as God commanded. The last few weeks my bible study has confronted me with the law, commands, obedience,and loving God. I have asked God to change my heart and my understanding about obeying his instructions and trusting Him.
I've listed the "Ten Commandments" because they are probably ten Instructions from God that every believer agrees should be followed. God wrote them down on stone tablets for Moses to present to the nation of Israel at Mount Sinai. Christians today in America get all stirred up about posting them in schools, court houses, and Public squares. They are they only "Laws" of God you can extoll without being called legalistic, which is the most dreaded thing any Christian can be accused of. Then comes the Sabbath.......... and I realize even the "Big Ten" are really only the "Main Nine". Compare the number of sermons you've heard on tithing with the number you've heard on keeping the Sabbath holy. Even without getting all caught up on which day we should observe, the Sabbath or the Lord's day, just following God's instructions. These instructions were in place before Moses showed up. They were established in the beginning and enforced when Adam and Eve disobeyed God's One commandment.
This month Louisiana Southern Baptist are taking part in an initiative called "Awaken 2012". We are praying and fasting for revival. A 21 day journal with a daily focus is also part of the program. It is a great endeavor and spiritual revival is desperately needed...... Day 12 of the journal is titled "the Blessings of Obedience". What if? What would happen? What if all Southern Baptists purposed in their hearts to fully obey the "Fourth Commandment". On our Lord's day we would rest. We would not participate in anything that required others to work. We would fellowship together as families and worship together as believers and focus on God's goodness. What would that feel like? Would anyone notice? Would a lost world dying from a frantic, hectic, busy lifestyle stop and marvel? Before you answer think about the cost of obeying. No retail shopping, no electronic distractions, if you "earn" your living preaching or leading worship, oops, take the day off. Think about this, dwell on all the implications....... Now examine your response. I was ashamed. My main focus was " would I have to give up NFL Games? That's restful to me. Could I still go to Chili's for lunch? What if I need to run to Super One or Walmart? Are there any loopholes, exceptions? Who decides what counts and doesn't ? Wait! Which day is the Sabbath, Saturday or Sunday? ............ I'm just like a spoiled, self centered child. A loving parent gives an instruction and the heart leans toward rebellion instead of Obedience. Do we view God's instructions as loving gifts for our protection or punishing burdens under which we suffer? Have we taken the liberty of Grace so far that our hearts despise obedience. We want revival but not at the expense of our own desires. That is why we are an American Church that looks more like the culture than the pure bride of Christ, anxious for His return.
Wow. A long post today. I have far to go and much to learn.
The Ten Commandments
And God spoke all these words, saying:
1 “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. “You shall have no other gods before Me.
2 “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.
3 “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.
4 “ Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
5 “ Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you.
6 “You shall not murder.
7 “You shall not commit adultery.
8 “You shall not steal.
9 “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.”
Well here we are, the official "work" week is behind us and the weekend is here. It is 6:00 am and all is quiet on a Saturday morning in my house. As usual I find myself wondering what it would be like to truly observe the Sabbath as God commanded. The last few weeks my bible study has confronted me with the law, commands, obedience,and loving God. I have asked God to change my heart and my understanding about obeying his instructions and trusting Him.
I've listed the "Ten Commandments" because they are probably ten Instructions from God that every believer agrees should be followed. God wrote them down on stone tablets for Moses to present to the nation of Israel at Mount Sinai. Christians today in America get all stirred up about posting them in schools, court houses, and Public squares. They are they only "Laws" of God you can extoll without being called legalistic, which is the most dreaded thing any Christian can be accused of. Then comes the Sabbath.......... and I realize even the "Big Ten" are really only the "Main Nine". Compare the number of sermons you've heard on tithing with the number you've heard on keeping the Sabbath holy. Even without getting all caught up on which day we should observe, the Sabbath or the Lord's day, just following God's instructions. These instructions were in place before Moses showed up. They were established in the beginning and enforced when Adam and Eve disobeyed God's One commandment.
This month Louisiana Southern Baptist are taking part in an initiative called "Awaken 2012". We are praying and fasting for revival. A 21 day journal with a daily focus is also part of the program. It is a great endeavor and spiritual revival is desperately needed...... Day 12 of the journal is titled "the Blessings of Obedience". What if? What would happen? What if all Southern Baptists purposed in their hearts to fully obey the "Fourth Commandment". On our Lord's day we would rest. We would not participate in anything that required others to work. We would fellowship together as families and worship together as believers and focus on God's goodness. What would that feel like? Would anyone notice? Would a lost world dying from a frantic, hectic, busy lifestyle stop and marvel? Before you answer think about the cost of obeying. No retail shopping, no electronic distractions, if you "earn" your living preaching or leading worship, oops, take the day off. Think about this, dwell on all the implications....... Now examine your response. I was ashamed. My main focus was " would I have to give up NFL Games? That's restful to me. Could I still go to Chili's for lunch? What if I need to run to Super One or Walmart? Are there any loopholes, exceptions? Who decides what counts and doesn't ? Wait! Which day is the Sabbath, Saturday or Sunday? ............ I'm just like a spoiled, self centered child. A loving parent gives an instruction and the heart leans toward rebellion instead of Obedience. Do we view God's instructions as loving gifts for our protection or punishing burdens under which we suffer? Have we taken the liberty of Grace so far that our hearts despise obedience. We want revival but not at the expense of our own desires. That is why we are an American Church that looks more like the culture than the pure bride of Christ, anxious for His return.
Wow. A long post today. I have far to go and much to learn.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
ג Gimel
17 Be good to your servant while I live,
that I may obey your word.
18 Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law.
19 I am a stranger on earth;
do not hide your commands from me.
20 My soul is consumed with longing
for your laws at all times.
21 You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed,
those who stray from your commands.
22 Remove from me their scorn and contempt,
for I keep your statutes.
23 Though rulers sit together and slander me,
your servant will meditate on your decrees.
24 Your statutes are my delight;
they are my counselors.
Hear, O Israel, The LORD is Our God, The LORD is One.
This is the "SHEMA" a Jewish prayer from Deuteronomy 6:4. This is the first scripture taught to Hebrew children and many Jews recite this verse as a prayer twice a day.
The verse that follows is the commandment that Jesus said was the first and greatest commandment. (Matthew 22).
This seems like the place to start if I truly want to obey and delight in His commandments.
Deuteronomy 6:5
You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.
Jesus said this is the foundation that all the other commandments rest upon.
Tonight would be a great night to find a quiet place and read 1 John.
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.
17 Be good to your servant while I live,
that I may obey your word.
18 Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law.
19 I am a stranger on earth;
do not hide your commands from me.
20 My soul is consumed with longing
for your laws at all times.
21 You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed,
those who stray from your commands.
22 Remove from me their scorn and contempt,
for I keep your statutes.
23 Though rulers sit together and slander me,
your servant will meditate on your decrees.
24 Your statutes are my delight;
they are my counselors.
Hear, O Israel, The LORD is Our God, The LORD is One.
This is the "SHEMA" a Jewish prayer from Deuteronomy 6:4. This is the first scripture taught to Hebrew children and many Jews recite this verse as a prayer twice a day.
The verse that follows is the commandment that Jesus said was the first and greatest commandment. (Matthew 22).
This seems like the place to start if I truly want to obey and delight in His commandments.
Deuteronomy 6:5
You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.
Jesus said this is the foundation that all the other commandments rest upon.
Tonight would be a great night to find a quiet place and read 1 John.
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
1 John 2:3-5
Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him.
John 14:15-17
If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth.
John 15:10
If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.
So what are His commandments? If the measure of my Love for Him is obedience, and the desire of my heart should be to obey His word, what does that really look like in my daily walk?
Lord as I read your PSALMS show me how to obey You. Make me aware of every opportunity to please You as I walk through the day.
Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him.
John 14:15-17
If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth.
John 15:10
If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.
So what are His commandments? If the measure of my Love for Him is obedience, and the desire of my heart should be to obey His word, what does that really look like in my daily walk?
Lord as I read your PSALMS show me how to obey You. Make me aware of every opportunity to please You as I walk through the day.
Monday, January 16, 2012
ג Gimel
17 Deal generously with Your servant
so that I might live;
then I will keep Your word.
18 Open my eyes so that I may contemplate
wonderful things from Your instruction.
19 I am a stranger on earth;
do not hide Your commands from me.
20 I am continually overcome
with longing for Your judgments.
21 You rebuke the proud,
the ones under a curse,
who wander from Your commands.
22 Take insult and contempt away from me,
for I have kept Your decrees.
23 Though princes sit together speaking against me,
Your servant will think about Your statutes;
24 Your decrees are my delight
and my counselors.
17 Deal generously with Your servant
so that I might live;
then I will keep Your word.
18 Open my eyes so that I may contemplate
wonderful things from Your instruction.
19 I am a stranger on earth;
do not hide Your commands from me.
20 I am continually overcome
with longing for Your judgments.
21 You rebuke the proud,
the ones under a curse,
who wander from Your commands.
22 Take insult and contempt away from me,
for I have kept Your decrees.
23 Though princes sit together speaking against me,
Your servant will think about Your statutes;
24 Your decrees are my delight
and my counselors.
Lord I am torn and convicted. As I meditate on these scriptures I am challenged daily to Love and long for your law. I’ve learned to despise the law in favor of your grace. The law brought death and condemnation, it was nailed to the cross and died with You, grace was resurrected with You. Have I misunderstood? Do these verses reflect an old testament view that should be different now? Give me insight and understanding. Open my eyes so that I may contemplate wonderful thing from Your instructions……
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Walk as a stranger on the earth.
ג Gimel
17 Be good to your servant while I live,
that I may obey your word.
18 Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law.
19 I am a stranger on earth;
do not hide your commands from me.
20 My soul is consumed with longing
for your laws at all times.
21 You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed,
those who stray from your commands.
22 Remove from me their scorn and contempt,
for I keep your statutes.
23 Though rulers sit together and slander me,
your servant will meditate on your decrees.
24 Your statutes are my delight;
they are my counselors.
GIMEL
The Hebrew letter Gimel is where our letter "G" comes from. Letters started as pictures that were used to convey ideas. The Gimel was a picture of a foot. It symbolized walking, carrying, gathering. The modern letter Gimel still resembles a foot.
This weeks section of Psalms 119 is "Gimel". I am going to focus on my walk. As I meditate on and memorize this passage I'll ask God to teach me to walk in a way that pleases Him.
It is a new week!!! New challenges!! New opportunities!! Walk as a stranger on earth.
17 Be good to your servant while I live,
that I may obey your word.
18 Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law.
19 I am a stranger on earth;
do not hide your commands from me.
20 My soul is consumed with longing
for your laws at all times.
21 You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed,
those who stray from your commands.
22 Remove from me their scorn and contempt,
for I keep your statutes.
23 Though rulers sit together and slander me,
your servant will meditate on your decrees.
24 Your statutes are my delight;
they are my counselors.
GIMEL
The Hebrew letter Gimel is where our letter "G" comes from. Letters started as pictures that were used to convey ideas. The Gimel was a picture of a foot. It symbolized walking, carrying, gathering. The modern letter Gimel still resembles a foot.
This weeks section of Psalms 119 is "Gimel". I am going to focus on my walk. As I meditate on and memorize this passage I'll ask God to teach me to walk in a way that pleases Him.
It is a new week!!! New challenges!! New opportunities!! Walk as a stranger on earth.
Friday, January 13, 2012
What's that look like?
BETH
9 How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
10 With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.
12 Blessed are You, O LORD!
Teach me Your statutes.
13 With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth.
14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.
15 I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways.
16 I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.
This week has flown by and each day I carried this scripture around in my mind and jotted down on a small card. It really is amazing how often this small piece of God’s word was relevant to what was going on in my daily life.
I asked myself this question: Of all God’s commandments and statutes, where do I start? Jesus was asked that very question by a religious leader in His day. His answer was, “Love God and love your neighbor. Everything else is built on these two.” That’s Rick’s paraphrase, you can read it yourself in Matthew 22 or Mark 12. That is where I landed, do I love God? If I say I love Him, how is that demonstrated in my daily life? For me it came down to this; how much control of my life do I yield to God and am I faithful and obedient to Him.
It occurred to me that it should look very much like my relationship with my wife. I love her with all my heart and it looks like this; every morning I wake up with her on my mind, even when we are apart I think about her starting her day and if I need to do anything for her. I look for ways to let her know I’m thinking of her and that I appreciate her. I am faithful to her beyond just the letter of the law. What the heck does that mean? It means this; I am very careful to avoid any situation or conversation that could open the door to infidelity. I do not test my will power in the area of faithfulness; I have seen too many friends wreck their marriages by being careless. Everything I do affects our relationship and I am aware of this. I trust my wife completely because I know she loves me and we share this commitment to each other. Keep in mind the above description is between two human beings that are prone to selfishness and failure, but are committed to each other just the same.
So, is my relationship with God that real? Am I that committed? Do I guard my heart against unfaithfulness that closely? Do I TRUST Him completely? Am I always aware that everything I do affects the relationship? Do I seek his companionship? Do I look for ways to please Him? How much more does God love me and how much more perfect is His love than the love my wife has for me? Do I cheat on God? Do I take Him for granted? Would Melissa be satisfied with the same level of commitment I demonstrate towards Him?
Psalms 119 is working me over.
9 How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
10 With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.
12 Blessed are You, O LORD!
Teach me Your statutes.
13 With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth.
14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.
15 I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways.
16 I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.
This week has flown by and each day I carried this scripture around in my mind and jotted down on a small card. It really is amazing how often this small piece of God’s word was relevant to what was going on in my daily life.
I asked myself this question: Of all God’s commandments and statutes, where do I start? Jesus was asked that very question by a religious leader in His day. His answer was, “Love God and love your neighbor. Everything else is built on these two.” That’s Rick’s paraphrase, you can read it yourself in Matthew 22 or Mark 12. That is where I landed, do I love God? If I say I love Him, how is that demonstrated in my daily life? For me it came down to this; how much control of my life do I yield to God and am I faithful and obedient to Him.
It occurred to me that it should look very much like my relationship with my wife. I love her with all my heart and it looks like this; every morning I wake up with her on my mind, even when we are apart I think about her starting her day and if I need to do anything for her. I look for ways to let her know I’m thinking of her and that I appreciate her. I am faithful to her beyond just the letter of the law. What the heck does that mean? It means this; I am very careful to avoid any situation or conversation that could open the door to infidelity. I do not test my will power in the area of faithfulness; I have seen too many friends wreck their marriages by being careless. Everything I do affects our relationship and I am aware of this. I trust my wife completely because I know she loves me and we share this commitment to each other. Keep in mind the above description is between two human beings that are prone to selfishness and failure, but are committed to each other just the same.
So, is my relationship with God that real? Am I that committed? Do I guard my heart against unfaithfulness that closely? Do I TRUST Him completely? Am I always aware that everything I do affects the relationship? Do I seek his companionship? Do I look for ways to please Him? How much more does God love me and how much more perfect is His love than the love my wife has for me? Do I cheat on God? Do I take Him for granted? Would Melissa be satisfied with the same level of commitment I demonstrate towards Him?
Psalms 119 is working me over.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
DO I LOVE
Psalms 119
How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
Matthew 22
Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, and saying, “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
Love God, Love our neighbor…… this is what I think of as a proportional command. The measure of the first is directly related to the measure of the second. If love for my neighbor is lacking it is because I am not exercising Love towards my Lord.
How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
Matthew 22
Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, and saying, “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
Love God, Love our neighbor…… this is what I think of as a proportional command. The measure of the first is directly related to the measure of the second. If love for my neighbor is lacking it is because I am not exercising Love towards my Lord.
Monday, January 9, 2012
TRUST
BETH
9 How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
10 With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.
12 Blessed are You, O LORD!
Teach me Your statutes.
13 With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth.
14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.
15 I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways.
16 I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.
Psalms 119:9-16
This week I start and end each day in this scripture. BETH, the ancient Hebrew letter is symbolic of a tent or dwelling place. This is where I will dwell this week. Knowing God’s testimonies, words, statutes, judgments, ways, precepts, and commandments, are the beginning of knowing Him. If I am not spending time getting to know God’s ways how can I ever come to the point of completely TRUSTING Him? It is when I trust myself more than I trust Him that I fail. That becomes the real issue about obedience, how does the old song go? “Trust and Obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
9 How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
10 With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.
12 Blessed are You, O LORD!
Teach me Your statutes.
13 With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth.
14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.
15 I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways.
16 I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.
Psalms 119:9-16
This week I start and end each day in this scripture. BETH, the ancient Hebrew letter is symbolic of a tent or dwelling place. This is where I will dwell this week. Knowing God’s testimonies, words, statutes, judgments, ways, precepts, and commandments, are the beginning of knowing Him. If I am not spending time getting to know God’s ways how can I ever come to the point of completely TRUSTING Him? It is when I trust myself more than I trust Him that I fail. That becomes the real issue about obedience, how does the old song go? “Trust and Obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
Thursday, January 5, 2012
The Night Watch
And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day.
I love sitting on top of my hill gazing at the night sky. Knowing that God placed the stars, planets and moon in their place for a reason just amazes me. Nothing in the night sky is insignificant The stars announced the birth of our Savior, leading the Magi to Bethlehem. The Shepherds were watching their flocks beneath a full moon the night that Jesus was born. A full moon hung in the sky the night before Jesus hung on the cross. The sound of the Shofar is heard in Jerusalem each new moon. The night sky reminds me that God is in control.
I love sitting on top of my hill gazing at the night sky. Knowing that God placed the stars, planets and moon in their place for a reason just amazes me. Nothing in the night sky is insignificant The stars announced the birth of our Savior, leading the Magi to Bethlehem. The Shepherds were watching their flocks beneath a full moon the night that Jesus was born. A full moon hung in the sky the night before Jesus hung on the cross. The sound of the Shofar is heard in Jerusalem each new moon. The night sky reminds me that God is in control.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
A Fresh Start
Psalm 119
ALEPH
1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the LORD!
2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart!
3 They also do no iniquity;
They walk in His ways.
4 You have commanded us
To keep Your precepts diligently.
5 Oh, that my ways were directed
To keep Your statutes!
6 Then I would not be ashamed,
When I look into all Your commandments.
7 I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.
8 I will keep Your statutes;
Oh, do not forsake me utterly!
This time of year always makes me feel like a fresh start. A new year ahead of me, the busy Holidays are behind me. Even though I don’t usually make “new year resolutions” it seems appropriate.
ALEPH is the first letter of the Hebrew Alphabet, it opens Psalms 119 and it’s where I will spend my time opening 2012.
Each day:
I will seek Him with all my heart
I will walk in His ways
I will praise Him with an upright heart
I will keep His statutes
I will look at His instructions
I will learn of His righteousness
I will be diligent
ALEPH
1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the LORD!
2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart!
3 They also do no iniquity;
They walk in His ways.
4 You have commanded us
To keep Your precepts diligently.
5 Oh, that my ways were directed
To keep Your statutes!
6 Then I would not be ashamed,
When I look into all Your commandments.
7 I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.
8 I will keep Your statutes;
Oh, do not forsake me utterly!
This time of year always makes me feel like a fresh start. A new year ahead of me, the busy Holidays are behind me. Even though I don’t usually make “new year resolutions” it seems appropriate.
ALEPH is the first letter of the Hebrew Alphabet, it opens Psalms 119 and it’s where I will spend my time opening 2012.
Each day:
I will seek Him with all my heart
I will walk in His ways
I will praise Him with an upright heart
I will keep His statutes
I will look at His instructions
I will learn of His righteousness
I will be diligent
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