I know.......it's been a while. I am reading I Peter every day, and will post my observations when I can sit down and organize my thoughts in a comprehensible manner.
Meanwhile......God is working (that seems so lame to say.....isn't He always?), well, at least I am seeing how He's working, and am delighting in the ways that He is dealing with me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sunday School I Kings chapters 19 and 20. Bart Lester
After the confrontation with the pagan prophets, Jezebel is told of the encounter, and that Elijah put all 850 prophets of baal and asherah. She sends a message to Elijah: "I will do the same to you by this time tomorrow."
Next line: "he was afraid....." It was pointed out the different versions translate this differently. Others state,"then he saw".......meaning that he observed that nothing was changed in Israel by the encounter with the prophets. God was revealed as the powerful God, but no change ensued.
I have always been taught that Elijah was afraid, and the meaning is that he is just like us all. And that the following encounter with God @ Mt Sinai was demonstrating God's gentle care for him, and encouragement. I've been taught that Elijah was pity-partying, and God set him straight.
But this morning it was pointed out, and makes more sense in keeping with the rest of Scripture, that Elijah was bringing an accusation against Israel to God. The accusation is that they are totally apostate, and only Elijah still serves God. He is not being self absorbed, but is concerned that God's Name is not glorified. God listens, then provides a little demonstration, in the wind, fire and earthquake......all dramatic events. But God was not found in them. Then, He is heard in the form of a small whisper.
The point: Don't look for God in the spectacular, but in the small, unnoticeable things. Elijah once again brings his accusation. And God's reply is to reveal His plan.....an ongoing plan that will span over a length of time. Elijah is given instructions to follow, along with the promise that there will be a remnant in Israel, 7,000 to be exact, who have not bowed to or served baal.
Elijah follows God's directions for him, including the call of Elisha to follow in his footsteps.
Elisha asks to be allowed to go home first and say goodbye to his family. Elijah obliges. I must admit that this has always puzzled me, in light of Jesus' words to the young man in the gospels who wanted to wait to follow Him until after he'd gone home to his family. But it was pointed out this morning that Elisha was burning his bridges......effectively eradicating anything that would lure him back. He sacrificed his oxen, their yokes, and severed ties with family. He was fully and wholeheartedly accepting God's call. He caught up with Elijah and served him.
Next we have the story of 2 encounters between Ahab and Ben-hadad of Syria. A prophet tells Ahab twice of upcoming battles with Ben-hadad, and wonder of wonders, Ahab listens. But the end is tragic.
Ahab is willing to listen to God when the prophecy benefits him. God says, twice, go and fight the Syrians, and I will win the battle for you. Ahab is all up on that and obeys willingly. But when he refused to do another thing God has said to do.....destroy (kill) the pagan kings, Ahab does what is right in his own eyes, rather than obey. He lets Ben-hadad live, and works out a plan for economic prosperity for himself and Israel. God isn't pleased and sends a prophet to tell him that his life will be taken for the life that he let go, when God had said destroy him. Ahab's reacton: he went home angry and sulking.
Another observation was this: Israel's decline can be noted in the ideas of the pagan nations regarding the God of Israel. Recall during the conquest of Canaan, that the kings feared Him greatly, and even acknowledged that the God of Israel was all powerful. Now, the surrounding nations have no clue, because of Israel's disobedience. They reduce Him to a god like theirs, who is limited in knowledge, power and scope. "He is the god of the hills, so thats why Israel won the battle the first time......we fought in the hills so their God was powerful. But if we fight them in the plains, he cannot help them." To me, this is a sad commentary on the state of God's people.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sermon, Billy Joseph on the Woman at the Well, John 4:1-27
This was a wonderful take on this scripture.
Taken from the standpoint of evangelism, this is an example of how to present the gospel to outsiders. Note that the previous chapter was about dealing with insiders (Nicodemus). Never thought of it that way.
First, not the 'boundaries' Jesus crossed. While most Jews chose to cross the Jordan twice in order to get around Samaria, He chose to go straight through. He was a Jew, speaking to a Samaritan. Unheard of! Also, he was a male, speaking to a female in public, which was forbidden. Even more, He was asking to use her drinking utensil, which would make Him ceremonially unclean. Point: He met her on her turf, breaking all kinds of rules to do so. But, note this: He did not do so in a bold, brash, defiant, and public way. He wasn't parading His freedom or his breaking of the rules, but quietly meeting her where she was in order to communicate the Gospel to her.
He also revealed His weakness to her. When I heard that, my mind revolted! Jesus? Weakness? Never! But yes, He did. He was weak in that he was tired and thirsty, but He had no means to draw water. Sure, He, being Jesus, could have worked a miracle, but it is the Word that brings us to Him, not signs. She didn't need to see a sign. She needed the Word. And He gave it. Another way to see this is that He revealed the commonality between them. Though Jew and Samaritan, they both go hot, tired, and thirsty, and both needed the correct tools to get water.
Jesus opens the conversation in a normal way, asking for some water. She responds with questions about the cultural acceptability of His action. He responds with a leading question, "If you knew who was asking, you'd be asking ME for some living water." She takes the bait, reminding him that He has no means to draw any water, and anyway, where would one get this 'living water'.
Jesus then gives her a little more information about the benefits of the living water. She is interested! "Give me some, so I won't have to draw water anymore!" She wants it, but she is not quite understanding the spiritual nature of His words. He doesn't point this out to her directly, but gives a direction for her to go get her husband, to which she replies, "I have no husband."
Ah....there's the rub. Jesus acknowledges what she says, and even more, He reveals her sin. (He is God, remember, and CAN do that......we do not have such immediate knowledge, but must develop relationship in order to see it). She owns that, and her next speech reveals that more light is dawning on her. She asks, in a way, where she can learn more, or get such water, by pointing out that the place they are was once a place of worship. Jesus goes on to tell her that now it isn't about where you worship so much as how you worship......in wisdom and truth. She goes a step farther, indicating that she is aware of the prophecies about the Christ. And, moment of truth, He reveals Himself to her as such.
In the rest of the chapter, she goes and calls her townspeople to come out and meet Him, and many believe.
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Monday, September 1, 2014
I Peter 2:1-3
Peter keeps building and building.
Verse 3: we are begotten to a living hope....a sure inheritance, incorruptible.
Because of this, we can rejoice through the trials of life, knowing that our faith is grounded on the sure foundation of Jesus Christ. We don't see Him now, but we believe. The prophets, and even angels long(ed) to know what we know now, but it wasn't given to them. Yet, they believed also.
Verse 13: Because of the hope that we have, and the sure inheritance, we need to get serious about our attitudes. We are to :
1) rest our hope on Him...not conforming to the world but...
2)be holy for He is holy (and we are joined to Him)
3) conduct ourselves in 'fear'.....understanding the gravity of the transaction made on our behalf.
4) love one another fervently with a pure heart, as we only can do because we are joined to Him. We, in and of ourselves are weak, but He is strong. We are finite, our lives are fleeting and momentary, but He is infinite.
Chapter 2:1 Because of the things above, now, do these things........As we can only do through Him....
No malice (slow, burning anger), deceit, hypocrisy (pretending and acting), envy, evil speaking.
Desire or crave, the Word of God. It is the source of our growth as Christians.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
I have no adequate words to thank Him enough.
He is teaching me many things, through His Word, which He has taught me over the last several years to crave.
Verse 3: we are begotten to a living hope....a sure inheritance, incorruptible.
Because of this, we can rejoice through the trials of life, knowing that our faith is grounded on the sure foundation of Jesus Christ. We don't see Him now, but we believe. The prophets, and even angels long(ed) to know what we know now, but it wasn't given to them. Yet, they believed also.
Verse 13: Because of the hope that we have, and the sure inheritance, we need to get serious about our attitudes. We are to :
1) rest our hope on Him...not conforming to the world but...
2)be holy for He is holy (and we are joined to Him)
3) conduct ourselves in 'fear'.....understanding the gravity of the transaction made on our behalf.
4) love one another fervently with a pure heart, as we only can do because we are joined to Him. We, in and of ourselves are weak, but He is strong. We are finite, our lives are fleeting and momentary, but He is infinite.
Chapter 2:1 Because of the things above, now, do these things........As we can only do through Him....
No malice (slow, burning anger), deceit, hypocrisy (pretending and acting), envy, evil speaking.
Desire or crave, the Word of God. It is the source of our growth as Christians.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
I have no adequate words to thank Him enough.
He is teaching me many things, through His Word, which He has taught me over the last several years to crave.
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Sunday School, I Kings 17-18
Elijah comes on the scene right after the introduction of wicked king Ahab, who was more wicked than those before him, who at least gave a nod to God, though they developed a 'bootleg' religion. Ahab, on the other hand, outright worshiped Baal (I hate to even put that with a capital letter!), and refused to acknowledge God at all.
I won't re-iterate the entire story, but it is about the Word of God......received by the prophet, given to the appropriate person(s), and either received or despised by the hearer.
First, God's word comes to Elijah (received) to give to Ahab(despised): there will be no rain or dew even, until the Lord says so. An interesting note is that the pagan god baal was believed to be the god of lightning, rain and storm. This was an affront to his worshipers.
God tells Elijah to hide in the wilderness (received). He obeys and God provides for his needs by way of a brook and ravens. When the brook dries up, God sends Elijah to a widow, in of all places, the land of Sidon (enemy territory.....this is where Ahab's wife, Jezebel came from!) He obeys.
God's word comes through Elijah to the widow (received): feed me with what you think is the last of your stores, and God will provide. He does! When her son dies (apparently he is young, for she carries him in her arms) she questions Elijah, who prays and he is made alive by God's mercy. He blesses those who receive His Word.
Elijah is sent back to Ahab. On the way he meets Obadiah, who, though overseer of Ahab's household, is a servant of God and has hidden the prophets of God whom Jezebel is trying to kill. He receives God's word from Elijah (with a little hesitation at first). Elijah confronts Ahab again with his baal worship, and demands a confrontation with the prophets of baal.
Oh that wonderful story of that confrontation! Long story short, God wins, and baal is proven to be false and incapable. The prophets are put to death, as appropriate according to God's law. God now provides rain, after 3 and a half years of drought. Again, God wins.
It was pointed out that, although we tend to think more of the boldness of Elijah in proclaiming God's Word, he spend a lot of time on his knees in prayer. He prayed earnestly. How we need to learn this lesson! Also, Elijah was 'a man like us' according to James chapter 5. This will be more apparent in the next chapter.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Worship. "How and Hope" Lamentations 3:1-24 Bart Lester
How timely this is for me!
Jeremiah's life has been altered by cataclysmic events: war, mistreatment(prison, beatings, rejected, mocked), famine, drought, seige, and finally the destruction of Jerusalem, the foundation for worship, the place where God chose to dwell among His people. Gone. And he asks the question: "How?"
Though God had spoken through him the warnings about obedience and the curses for disobedience, he did not rejoice in Jerusalem's fall, but mourned greatly over it. His grief is very personal, and very real. His suffering is intense. He is in despair, as described in such harsh language in the beginning of the passage. He views God as his pursuer, the source of his despair.
Verse 18 is the final word: "My endurance has perished; so has my hope from the Lord."
Recall that 'hope' in the Scriptures isn't what we think of today. For us, 'hope' is something we wish for, or want to happen. "I hope my team wins," etc. Hope in the Word is a sure thing, a certainty that we know is there, but we can't yet see it or obtain it.
But.......then verse 19-20.....he recalls his circumstances, wrapping up the memory very neatly in terms like wormwood and gall, and how low he feels.
Then......he recalls 3 things that restore his hope. God's steadfast love, His unending mercy, and His great faithfulness.
God's steadfast love refers to his covenant with us. His Name and His character never change, and He will do all that He has said and promised. Judgement does not have the last word. God is both Judge and Redeemer. Neither will ever change. There is hope in the unending nature and character of our God, who is 100% faithful. Our hope is strengthened when we contemplate His faithfulness.
Jeremiah comes to the conclusion that "God is my portion." The word portion means inheritance. The physical inheritance of Israel had been taken away from them, but the spiritual cannot be taken away. See Romans 8:35 ff. NOTHING can separate us from the Love of God. Nothing.
Another pastor once used the word "substance' for 'portion. God is my substance. He is all I need. He has promised to provide what I need in this life. Where I get off track is when I think I need something He knows I don't need. Or, when, as part of his disciplining me, he does as mentioned in the last post...."refines my priorities by taking away things I value."
What comfort to recall and meditate on His love, mercy and faithfulness. Yes, indeed, there is
HOPE.
Elijah comes on the scene right after the introduction of wicked king Ahab, who was more wicked than those before him, who at least gave a nod to God, though they developed a 'bootleg' religion. Ahab, on the other hand, outright worshiped Baal (I hate to even put that with a capital letter!), and refused to acknowledge God at all.
I won't re-iterate the entire story, but it is about the Word of God......received by the prophet, given to the appropriate person(s), and either received or despised by the hearer.
First, God's word comes to Elijah (received) to give to Ahab(despised): there will be no rain or dew even, until the Lord says so. An interesting note is that the pagan god baal was believed to be the god of lightning, rain and storm. This was an affront to his worshipers.
God tells Elijah to hide in the wilderness (received). He obeys and God provides for his needs by way of a brook and ravens. When the brook dries up, God sends Elijah to a widow, in of all places, the land of Sidon (enemy territory.....this is where Ahab's wife, Jezebel came from!) He obeys.
God's word comes through Elijah to the widow (received): feed me with what you think is the last of your stores, and God will provide. He does! When her son dies (apparently he is young, for she carries him in her arms) she questions Elijah, who prays and he is made alive by God's mercy. He blesses those who receive His Word.
Elijah is sent back to Ahab. On the way he meets Obadiah, who, though overseer of Ahab's household, is a servant of God and has hidden the prophets of God whom Jezebel is trying to kill. He receives God's word from Elijah (with a little hesitation at first). Elijah confronts Ahab again with his baal worship, and demands a confrontation with the prophets of baal.
Oh that wonderful story of that confrontation! Long story short, God wins, and baal is proven to be false and incapable. The prophets are put to death, as appropriate according to God's law. God now provides rain, after 3 and a half years of drought. Again, God wins.
It was pointed out that, although we tend to think more of the boldness of Elijah in proclaiming God's Word, he spend a lot of time on his knees in prayer. He prayed earnestly. How we need to learn this lesson! Also, Elijah was 'a man like us' according to James chapter 5. This will be more apparent in the next chapter.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Worship. "How and Hope" Lamentations 3:1-24 Bart Lester
How timely this is for me!
Jeremiah's life has been altered by cataclysmic events: war, mistreatment(prison, beatings, rejected, mocked), famine, drought, seige, and finally the destruction of Jerusalem, the foundation for worship, the place where God chose to dwell among His people. Gone. And he asks the question: "How?"
Though God had spoken through him the warnings about obedience and the curses for disobedience, he did not rejoice in Jerusalem's fall, but mourned greatly over it. His grief is very personal, and very real. His suffering is intense. He is in despair, as described in such harsh language in the beginning of the passage. He views God as his pursuer, the source of his despair.
Verse 18 is the final word: "My endurance has perished; so has my hope from the Lord."
Recall that 'hope' in the Scriptures isn't what we think of today. For us, 'hope' is something we wish for, or want to happen. "I hope my team wins," etc. Hope in the Word is a sure thing, a certainty that we know is there, but we can't yet see it or obtain it.
But.......then verse 19-20.....he recalls his circumstances, wrapping up the memory very neatly in terms like wormwood and gall, and how low he feels.
Then......he recalls 3 things that restore his hope. God's steadfast love, His unending mercy, and His great faithfulness.
God's steadfast love refers to his covenant with us. His Name and His character never change, and He will do all that He has said and promised. Judgement does not have the last word. God is both Judge and Redeemer. Neither will ever change. There is hope in the unending nature and character of our God, who is 100% faithful. Our hope is strengthened when we contemplate His faithfulness.
Jeremiah comes to the conclusion that "God is my portion." The word portion means inheritance. The physical inheritance of Israel had been taken away from them, but the spiritual cannot be taken away. See Romans 8:35 ff. NOTHING can separate us from the Love of God. Nothing.
Another pastor once used the word "substance' for 'portion. God is my substance. He is all I need. He has promised to provide what I need in this life. Where I get off track is when I think I need something He knows I don't need. Or, when, as part of his disciplining me, he does as mentioned in the last post...."refines my priorities by taking away things I value."
What comfort to recall and meditate on His love, mercy and faithfulness. Yes, indeed, there is
HOPE.
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Saturday 8/30/14
I have decided that I cannot continue to write every day about the Scripture passage I read. I still read, and study, and what a blessing it is! But I am struggling too much to write the things I am learning from His Word. So.....I will write periodically with insights, etc.
This evening I sat out on the patio continuing in I Peter. The study in the Psalms prepared me and taught me to think and meditate on the Word as I read. God is blessing obedience to be diligent about study.
It amazes me how 'alive' the Scriptures are. New every time I read. He told us so.....but it is so wonderful to find it true in those pages!
These chapters have made firm the teaching from chapter 7 of "the Hole in Our Holiness" by Kevin DeYoung, which we studied last week in D'group. I think I mentioned that in a previous post. I cannot put in words all that is on my mind. Bottom line: we CAN be holy because we are in Christ. There is hope! We have been 'born again .....through the word of God which lives and abides forever." Humanity is fleeting and weak. But His Word endures forever." We are weak, but made strong. We struggle, but He wins the battle for us.
What a comfort this is to me in my current struggles!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~``
In a letter to a friend talking about some issues that are at the root of a mild depression that I have struggled with, I said, "As for life changes, perhaps the Lord is teaching me about some idol worship? The loss of friends and/or things I loved has hit me hard. Several good friends have left, just moving on with life. Perhaps I relied a little too much on these temporary situations in life. I don't know. "
Yesterday, I was reading an article on the "Aquila Report" by Patsy Evans. She said it so well:
"God refines my priorities by taking away people and things I value."
Yes. Yes, He does. And it hurts. But He is good, and knows us better than we know ourselves, and has promised that He will make all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. He knows what we need to root out sin and make us more and more Christlike.
And so, I wait.
Trying to wait patiently.
This evening I sat out on the patio continuing in I Peter. The study in the Psalms prepared me and taught me to think and meditate on the Word as I read. God is blessing obedience to be diligent about study.
It amazes me how 'alive' the Scriptures are. New every time I read. He told us so.....but it is so wonderful to find it true in those pages!
These chapters have made firm the teaching from chapter 7 of "the Hole in Our Holiness" by Kevin DeYoung, which we studied last week in D'group. I think I mentioned that in a previous post. I cannot put in words all that is on my mind. Bottom line: we CAN be holy because we are in Christ. There is hope! We have been 'born again .....through the word of God which lives and abides forever." Humanity is fleeting and weak. But His Word endures forever." We are weak, but made strong. We struggle, but He wins the battle for us.
What a comfort this is to me in my current struggles!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~``
In a letter to a friend talking about some issues that are at the root of a mild depression that I have struggled with, I said, "As for life changes, perhaps the Lord is teaching me about some idol worship? The loss of friends and/or things I loved has hit me hard. Several good friends have left, just moving on with life. Perhaps I relied a little too much on these temporary situations in life. I don't know. "
Yesterday, I was reading an article on the "Aquila Report" by Patsy Evans. She said it so well:
"God refines my priorities by taking away people and things I value."
Yes. Yes, He does. And it hurts. But He is good, and knows us better than we know ourselves, and has promised that He will make all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. He knows what we need to root out sin and make us more and more Christlike.
And so, I wait.
Trying to wait patiently.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
I Peter 1:13-16
So much packed into so few words.......
"Therefore...." points us back to what's been said. So, because of the living hope we have in Christ Jesus, because He chose you and saved you, and you are assured of an inheritance with Him, now do this........
NKJV : "gird up your loins". RSB: "prepare your minds for action"
I have a note in my bible from group study: "get serious about your attitudes. Pursue Christ diligently. Act decisively by your will.
"be sober" or be self controlled.
"rest your hope": be worthy.
In other words, Peter is calling the reader to not be lackadaisical about their faith. Consider the truths mentioned before and because of this knowledge, make living for Christ the main thing. Be intentional about it. Don't get discouraged or be wishy-washy about your faith because of persecution, but let the foundations of your faith mentioned in the first verses steady you and keep you firm.
"be holy"......another intentional action. It takes effort. Be holy as He is holy.
I am currently studying the book "The hole in our Holiness" by Kevin DeYoung. Chapter 7 especially helped with the concept of our ability to live holy lives. Because of our union with Christ, we CAN.
If we are in Him, we CAN be successful in not conforming to the world as we once did, and in living holy lives. But only IN Him, can we do this.
"The pursuit of holiness is not a quixotic effort to do just what Jesus did. It's the fight to live out the life that has already been made alive in Christ." (page 100, The Hole in our Holiness, Kevin DeYoung)
We must put forth effort, but that effort only succeeds when we are in Christ.
"Therefore...." points us back to what's been said. So, because of the living hope we have in Christ Jesus, because He chose you and saved you, and you are assured of an inheritance with Him, now do this........
NKJV : "gird up your loins". RSB: "prepare your minds for action"
I have a note in my bible from group study: "get serious about your attitudes. Pursue Christ diligently. Act decisively by your will.
"be sober" or be self controlled.
"rest your hope": be worthy.
In other words, Peter is calling the reader to not be lackadaisical about their faith. Consider the truths mentioned before and because of this knowledge, make living for Christ the main thing. Be intentional about it. Don't get discouraged or be wishy-washy about your faith because of persecution, but let the foundations of your faith mentioned in the first verses steady you and keep you firm.
"be holy"......another intentional action. It takes effort. Be holy as He is holy.
I am currently studying the book "The hole in our Holiness" by Kevin DeYoung. Chapter 7 especially helped with the concept of our ability to live holy lives. Because of our union with Christ, we CAN.
If we are in Him, we CAN be successful in not conforming to the world as we once did, and in living holy lives. But only IN Him, can we do this.
"The pursuit of holiness is not a quixotic effort to do just what Jesus did. It's the fight to live out the life that has already been made alive in Christ." (page 100, The Hole in our Holiness, Kevin DeYoung)
We must put forth effort, but that effort only succeeds when we are in Christ.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
I Peter 1:1-12
Peter begins this letter with encouragement for those far away. Not much is known about these Christians in what is now Turkey . It appears they were facing some persecution, but the nature of that isn't known.
How comforting his words must have been to them, as they perhaps struggled with their faith. To be reminded that they are elect, chosen by God since before time began, sanctified by the Spirit, and saved by Christ's blood.
What blessed hope! not as in "I wish", but a sure knowledge of the unseen......the 'not yet'. We have been born again....to this hope.....that we have an inheritance that cannot be marred, altered, or taken away. It is a sure thing.....kept for us and us for it, by God the Father.
Because of this knowledge, we can rejoice in trials. Because of this knowledge, our faith, though tested, is revealed. We have not seen Him, but we love Him and know Him.
Surely they were encouraged, too, to think that the prophets who foretold these things by the Spirit wondered about the specifics....to whom were these things being promised? and when? They understood that their ministry was to those to come after them. Even angels long to understand these things!
~~~~~~~~~~~`
I thought of passages in the Psalms that speak of this hope we have, but more of those that speak of the lack of hope for those who do not fear the Lord or worship Him. They live their lives, they plan, they scheme, but when they die, their plans and schemes, possessions and accolades die with them.
But Christ has prepared a place for those who love Him, and the Spirit assures us of it's reality.
How comforting his words must have been to them, as they perhaps struggled with their faith. To be reminded that they are elect, chosen by God since before time began, sanctified by the Spirit, and saved by Christ's blood.
What blessed hope! not as in "I wish", but a sure knowledge of the unseen......the 'not yet'. We have been born again....to this hope.....that we have an inheritance that cannot be marred, altered, or taken away. It is a sure thing.....kept for us and us for it, by God the Father.
Because of this knowledge, we can rejoice in trials. Because of this knowledge, our faith, though tested, is revealed. We have not seen Him, but we love Him and know Him.
Surely they were encouraged, too, to think that the prophets who foretold these things by the Spirit wondered about the specifics....to whom were these things being promised? and when? They understood that their ministry was to those to come after them. Even angels long to understand these things!
~~~~~~~~~~~`
I thought of passages in the Psalms that speak of this hope we have, but more of those that speak of the lack of hope for those who do not fear the Lord or worship Him. They live their lives, they plan, they scheme, but when they die, their plans and schemes, possessions and accolades die with them.
But Christ has prepared a place for those who love Him, and the Spirit assures us of it's reality.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Psalm 150
A wonderful doxology to close out the Psalter.
I never really thought of this psalm this way. But after studying through all 150 Psalms in a daily study for that many days, I have come to see it as a whole, rather than just a gathering of poems or songs. There is order, reason, and a purpose in the layout.
This psalm seems to close the Psalms out like the last verse of Ecclesiastes closes out that book. After mulling over life and it's injustices and harsh realities, vanities and chasing after the wind, the writer simply states the end of the matter: "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man."
The Psalms end on a similar note, in that the 'end of the matter' seems to be stated:
"Let everything that has life and breath praise the Lord!"
Praise Him with all that is at your disposal to do so, in every place that is. Let that praise be intentional and with understanding.....of all that God is and has done. Let that praise spill out from a heart that knows Him, not just about Him, and understands it's own weak and helpless position. Praise Him from a heart that trusts His sovereignty over all, and clings steadfastly to His promises. Praise Him from a soul that rests in the fear of the Lord, waiting patiently for His purposes to be accomplished in every thing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~``
When I began this blog, I did it because I felt the Lord leading me to be more intentional in daily Scripture reading.....to study, not just read and check it off the list. I'd always fought the notion of rising early to read, but God made it clear to me that I was to do this, and I committed to it, fully expecting it to be a struggle.
But it really hasn't been. It is a joy to read His Word first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee in my hand. The only hard part has been the writing. Some days it was just hard to find the time. Other days the 'want to' just wasn't there.
I will continue this routine, with a few exceptions. First I may not blog daily. There are some days that I will need to not push myself. But I will blog. Also, on Sundays, I may not always write about the sunday school study and sermon. We will see.
Tomorrow: I Peter.
I never really thought of this psalm this way. But after studying through all 150 Psalms in a daily study for that many days, I have come to see it as a whole, rather than just a gathering of poems or songs. There is order, reason, and a purpose in the layout.
This psalm seems to close the Psalms out like the last verse of Ecclesiastes closes out that book. After mulling over life and it's injustices and harsh realities, vanities and chasing after the wind, the writer simply states the end of the matter: "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man."
The Psalms end on a similar note, in that the 'end of the matter' seems to be stated:
"Let everything that has life and breath praise the Lord!"
Praise Him with all that is at your disposal to do so, in every place that is. Let that praise be intentional and with understanding.....of all that God is and has done. Let that praise spill out from a heart that knows Him, not just about Him, and understands it's own weak and helpless position. Praise Him from a heart that trusts His sovereignty over all, and clings steadfastly to His promises. Praise Him from a soul that rests in the fear of the Lord, waiting patiently for His purposes to be accomplished in every thing.
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When I began this blog, I did it because I felt the Lord leading me to be more intentional in daily Scripture reading.....to study, not just read and check it off the list. I'd always fought the notion of rising early to read, but God made it clear to me that I was to do this, and I committed to it, fully expecting it to be a struggle.
But it really hasn't been. It is a joy to read His Word first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee in my hand. The only hard part has been the writing. Some days it was just hard to find the time. Other days the 'want to' just wasn't there.
I will continue this routine, with a few exceptions. First I may not blog daily. There are some days that I will need to not push myself. But I will blog. Also, on Sundays, I may not always write about the sunday school study and sermon. We will see.
Tomorrow: I Peter.
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Sunday, Lord's Day, August 24, 2014
Sunday School: I Kings 15:25-16:34
An overview of Northern Kingdom(Israel) events that happened simultaneous to the time period already given for the Southern Kingdom (Judah) while Rehoboam, Abijam, and Asa reigned there.
5 kings reigned during this time, 3 of whom were assassinated. It was a time of economic prosperity, but religious and political decline. Recall that all of the priests and Levites have been replaced and a 'bootleg' religion set up that gives nod to Jehovah, but refuses to take seriously His commands and prophecies.
Nadab: had a brief feign of 2 years, defined by behavior that was in keeping with his father, Jeroboam.
Baasha: reigned for 24 years. He was an evil king, but God used him to accomplish the prophecy regarding Jeroboam(14:9-11), that all his family would be wiped out. This was a time of political stability, but not spiritually. Religious decline continued. Another prophecy is issued that his family, also, will be wiped out. He disregards the warning.
Elah, his son reigns for 2 years before he is assassinated by Zimri, an insider in his court.
Zimri reigns for about 7 days. Note he is not supported by the people. He acted alone in assassinating the king, and the people set another up as king (Omri). Zimri winds up committing suicide by burning himself up in the king's house.
Omri reigns for 12 years. He is in competition with Tibni for the loyalty of the people, but he wins out. Note the continued decline of the kingdom, in that there is not civil unrest within the nation, as well as civil war with Judah. Omri is a major world player at the time, as the Syrian's refer to Israel as the "House of Omri". He buys land and builds a major city. He is a leader, but ruthless. He too, gives nod to Jehovah, but refuses to obey Him.
At the end of the chapter, we are introduced to Ahab, who is more evil. He doesn't even nod to Jehovah. Ahab has no regard for Him whatsoever. He turns to Phonecia (Tyre and Sidon) and trades with them and intermarries with them, making Jezebel his wife. She is the daughter of a priest of Baal. Ahab sets up a temple for Baal worship and worships him outright.
The final note here seems out of place, but is appropriate with the theme of disregarding God's decrees and promises. Hiel builds up Jericho, in direct disregard for the instructions and warning given to Joshua in Joshua 6:26. He loses both his children, as promised.
The point of the passage seems to be repeated disregard for God's Word. He remains the same regardless of political or religious change.....and what He has said, He will do.
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Sermon, Billy Joseph "Three Evangelists" John 1:29-42
John : points to Jesus as an eyewitness. He had God's Word that the one on whom he saw the Spirit descending would be the Christ, and he saw that. John doesn't draw attention to himself, but points to Jesus as the One to follow.
Jesus: invites Andrew and the other disciple to join Him. He engages the in relationship and conversation. He brings them into his circle.
Andrew: brings his brother, Simon (Peter) to Jesus, putting him in contact with the Messiah physically. He doesn't just tell him about Jesus, he brings him to Him.
We are all admonished to point to Jesus, invite others, and bring them to the Body of Christ (the church) where they will come in contact with Him more fully.
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Meditation : "God uses us because we are weak, and therefore any 'strength' that other see must come from outside us--from Christ. We have given up a self-centered life to pass on life to others." Will Metzger.
An overview of Northern Kingdom(Israel) events that happened simultaneous to the time period already given for the Southern Kingdom (Judah) while Rehoboam, Abijam, and Asa reigned there.
5 kings reigned during this time, 3 of whom were assassinated. It was a time of economic prosperity, but religious and political decline. Recall that all of the priests and Levites have been replaced and a 'bootleg' religion set up that gives nod to Jehovah, but refuses to take seriously His commands and prophecies.
Nadab: had a brief feign of 2 years, defined by behavior that was in keeping with his father, Jeroboam.
Baasha: reigned for 24 years. He was an evil king, but God used him to accomplish the prophecy regarding Jeroboam(14:9-11), that all his family would be wiped out. This was a time of political stability, but not spiritually. Religious decline continued. Another prophecy is issued that his family, also, will be wiped out. He disregards the warning.
Elah, his son reigns for 2 years before he is assassinated by Zimri, an insider in his court.
Zimri reigns for about 7 days. Note he is not supported by the people. He acted alone in assassinating the king, and the people set another up as king (Omri). Zimri winds up committing suicide by burning himself up in the king's house.
Omri reigns for 12 years. He is in competition with Tibni for the loyalty of the people, but he wins out. Note the continued decline of the kingdom, in that there is not civil unrest within the nation, as well as civil war with Judah. Omri is a major world player at the time, as the Syrian's refer to Israel as the "House of Omri". He buys land and builds a major city. He is a leader, but ruthless. He too, gives nod to Jehovah, but refuses to obey Him.
At the end of the chapter, we are introduced to Ahab, who is more evil. He doesn't even nod to Jehovah. Ahab has no regard for Him whatsoever. He turns to Phonecia (Tyre and Sidon) and trades with them and intermarries with them, making Jezebel his wife. She is the daughter of a priest of Baal. Ahab sets up a temple for Baal worship and worships him outright.
The final note here seems out of place, but is appropriate with the theme of disregarding God's decrees and promises. Hiel builds up Jericho, in direct disregard for the instructions and warning given to Joshua in Joshua 6:26. He loses both his children, as promised.
The point of the passage seems to be repeated disregard for God's Word. He remains the same regardless of political or religious change.....and what He has said, He will do.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
Sermon, Billy Joseph "Three Evangelists" John 1:29-42
John : points to Jesus as an eyewitness. He had God's Word that the one on whom he saw the Spirit descending would be the Christ, and he saw that. John doesn't draw attention to himself, but points to Jesus as the One to follow.
Jesus: invites Andrew and the other disciple to join Him. He engages the in relationship and conversation. He brings them into his circle.
Andrew: brings his brother, Simon (Peter) to Jesus, putting him in contact with the Messiah physically. He doesn't just tell him about Jesus, he brings him to Him.
We are all admonished to point to Jesus, invite others, and bring them to the Body of Christ (the church) where they will come in contact with Him more fully.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meditation : "God uses us because we are weak, and therefore any 'strength' that other see must come from outside us--from Christ. We have given up a self-centered life to pass on life to others." Will Metzger.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Psalm 149
"A new song........"
As I thought on this Psalm today, this phrase struck me. A new song.......
Both study bibles indicate this is a song sung in association with battle victory, or
perhaps in anticipation of war, knowing that God is on their side.
At any rate, great, uninhibited praise is called for....with dancing, musical instruments, and song, for God has given the enemy over to his saints, and has given them the honor of executing judgement on them.
But, 'a new song,'? Perhaps they had grown repetitive in their worship, in word, song and prayer.
Maybe worship and praise had become habitual (which can be good), but meaningless because it was repetitive and rote and had lost it's meaning.
I wonder if the psalmist is calling them (us) to be intentional once again in worship. To really think about what worship is......praising the God of all, full of majesty and power, creator and sustainer of all things, Who alone gives life and breath. God......who chose them, rescued them from slavery, established them as a nation by His strength and power. God.....who fought their battles for them, and made them victorious when they obeyed Him.
Worship, when as it should be, I think will result in great outpourings of praise. Worship isn't for us or about us, indeed it is for and about God. He prescribed for us what He desires in worship, but we have twisted things and make it about us and what we think we need. But when we are obedient, and worship Him as He prescribes, then we DO benefit, for we understand our place before Him, and the great mercy and love with which He deals with us.
How fitting that tomorrow is Sunday.......
Prepare your heart for worship.
As I thought on this Psalm today, this phrase struck me. A new song.......
Both study bibles indicate this is a song sung in association with battle victory, or
perhaps in anticipation of war, knowing that God is on their side.
At any rate, great, uninhibited praise is called for....with dancing, musical instruments, and song, for God has given the enemy over to his saints, and has given them the honor of executing judgement on them.
But, 'a new song,'? Perhaps they had grown repetitive in their worship, in word, song and prayer.
Maybe worship and praise had become habitual (which can be good), but meaningless because it was repetitive and rote and had lost it's meaning.
I wonder if the psalmist is calling them (us) to be intentional once again in worship. To really think about what worship is......praising the God of all, full of majesty and power, creator and sustainer of all things, Who alone gives life and breath. God......who chose them, rescued them from slavery, established them as a nation by His strength and power. God.....who fought their battles for them, and made them victorious when they obeyed Him.
Worship, when as it should be, I think will result in great outpourings of praise. Worship isn't for us or about us, indeed it is for and about God. He prescribed for us what He desires in worship, but we have twisted things and make it about us and what we think we need. But when we are obedient, and worship Him as He prescribes, then we DO benefit, for we understand our place before Him, and the great mercy and love with which He deals with us.
How fitting that tomorrow is Sunday.......
Prepare your heart for worship.
Friday, August 22, 2014
Psalm 148
God is transcendent over all the universe, and is to be praised!
The highest heavens will praise Him, and all the angels and hosts that are there.
The created heavens will praise Him....the sun, moon, and stars that He put there, indeed the atmosphere will praise Him. At His command, they came into existence, in the order that He decreed, and nothing will alter that.
The earth, also, will praise Him.....such an all encompassing picture is painted! The land, the sea, all animals and elements will praise Him.
All people.......indeed shall praise Him, for He alone is God, there is no other. His majesty is evident....in all creation.
Let His people especially praise Him....for He has chosen them, and provides for and protects, and saves them.
The highest heavens will praise Him, and all the angels and hosts that are there.
The created heavens will praise Him....the sun, moon, and stars that He put there, indeed the atmosphere will praise Him. At His command, they came into existence, in the order that He decreed, and nothing will alter that.
The earth, also, will praise Him.....such an all encompassing picture is painted! The land, the sea, all animals and elements will praise Him.
All people.......indeed shall praise Him, for He alone is God, there is no other. His majesty is evident....in all creation.
Let His people especially praise Him....for He has chosen them, and provides for and protects, and saves them.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Psalm 147
Another of the praise hymns closing out the Psalms.
Praise Him......because it is good and fitting and pleasant to do so! I am reminded of the opposite of praising God for all He is and does....and that is pride. Self sufficiency. Really, it seems much more pleasant to me, to give honor and praise where due....rather than struggle with feelings of inadequacy, failure, and helplessness. It is easier and more pleasant to rely upon Him than to always be struggling to make it, or feel good about myself.....to put myself forward yearning for praise for my own actions.
Praise Him instead!
He builds up His house......Jerusalem and Israel first, and now His Church.
"He heals the broken hearted, and binds up their wounds".....This reminds me of the Beattitudes.....Blessed are they that mourn (their sinful state before God) and those who are poor in spirit. He does indeed heal our broken, contrite hearts and brings us to Himself.
He lifts the humble......
And once again, one negative line......."He casts the wicked to the ground."
His delight isn't in appearance strength, or might, or character; but He delights in all who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love. The truly broken hearted do fear Him (properly), and delight in His healing love!
Give praise for His works on the earth....His 'understanding' is beyond measure. He calls out the stars by name and knows their number; He prepares the rain and sends it to make grass grow, thus giving food to the animals of earth. He sends snow and frost, hail and cold and wind, all in due season.
He has blessed Israel with peace and good produce from the earth. He indeed chose her, and has given her only His covenant.....no other nation has been so chosen and blessed.
Praise Him!
Praise Him......because it is good and fitting and pleasant to do so! I am reminded of the opposite of praising God for all He is and does....and that is pride. Self sufficiency. Really, it seems much more pleasant to me, to give honor and praise where due....rather than struggle with feelings of inadequacy, failure, and helplessness. It is easier and more pleasant to rely upon Him than to always be struggling to make it, or feel good about myself.....to put myself forward yearning for praise for my own actions.
Praise Him instead!
He builds up His house......Jerusalem and Israel first, and now His Church.
"He heals the broken hearted, and binds up their wounds".....This reminds me of the Beattitudes.....Blessed are they that mourn (their sinful state before God) and those who are poor in spirit. He does indeed heal our broken, contrite hearts and brings us to Himself.
He lifts the humble......
And once again, one negative line......."He casts the wicked to the ground."
His delight isn't in appearance strength, or might, or character; but He delights in all who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love. The truly broken hearted do fear Him (properly), and delight in His healing love!
Give praise for His works on the earth....His 'understanding' is beyond measure. He calls out the stars by name and knows their number; He prepares the rain and sends it to make grass grow, thus giving food to the animals of earth. He sends snow and frost, hail and cold and wind, all in due season.
He has blessed Israel with peace and good produce from the earth. He indeed chose her, and has given her only His covenant.....no other nation has been so chosen and blessed.
Praise Him!
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Psalm 146
I was struck by the similarity of this song with Psalm 145.
Psalm 145 is a great song of praise for out God, naming His attributes and character.
Then one line got my attention: "But all the wicked He will destroy."
The same thing happens in Psalm 146.....Praise for the Lord....then one line: "But the way of the wicked He turns upside down."
Only one negative line in each psalm.
This song speaks of the one true source of help.....our God. Turning to other sources proves to be futile.....The plans of men perish when they die. The plans of men are fickle also, they rise up and fall down, and the 'shadow of turning' with them is huge. And man's power and ability are small. But our God is not so.
He made the heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them. He is the same, always......Truth, justice and mercy. He cares for His creation, providing food, healing, and freedom, supporting the weak and poor and helping the oppressed.
These verses remind me of the social justice mentality of our society today. Some preach this message without recognizing the conditions stated. See verse 5.....after stating in verse 3 and 4 that our trust should not be in princes or mankind, David states clearly that happy is the one whose trust and hope are in God. I think the points in the rest of the chapter are conditional primarily on this.....but there is common grace also. Also, see verse 20 of Ps. 145...."the Lord preserves all who love him."
And just like Psalm 145.....after the negative statement about God's judgement for the wicked.....
he commits his praise to the Lord for eternity.
Psalm 145 is a great song of praise for out God, naming His attributes and character.
Then one line got my attention: "But all the wicked He will destroy."
The same thing happens in Psalm 146.....Praise for the Lord....then one line: "But the way of the wicked He turns upside down."
Only one negative line in each psalm.
This song speaks of the one true source of help.....our God. Turning to other sources proves to be futile.....The plans of men perish when they die. The plans of men are fickle also, they rise up and fall down, and the 'shadow of turning' with them is huge. And man's power and ability are small. But our God is not so.
He made the heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them. He is the same, always......Truth, justice and mercy. He cares for His creation, providing food, healing, and freedom, supporting the weak and poor and helping the oppressed.
These verses remind me of the social justice mentality of our society today. Some preach this message without recognizing the conditions stated. See verse 5.....after stating in verse 3 and 4 that our trust should not be in princes or mankind, David states clearly that happy is the one whose trust and hope are in God. I think the points in the rest of the chapter are conditional primarily on this.....but there is common grace also. Also, see verse 20 of Ps. 145...."the Lord preserves all who love him."
And just like Psalm 145.....after the negative statement about God's judgement for the wicked.....
he commits his praise to the Lord for eternity.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Psalm 145
Our great, praiseworthy God!
David begins this song with an exuberant declaration of praise for our God. He is worthy of praise forever and ever, and indeed it will be so! "His greatness is unsearchable." We will never know Him fully, or comprehend Him while here on this earth, but we can know His vastness, and be aware that we can't fathom the depths of His greatness.
His greatness is known from generation to generation, for one tells the other of His mighty works and deeds.
His Character is praised in verse 8-9 "The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all and His mercy is over all that he has made."
What other god is given such praise? What other god of the pagans has such relationship with his people?
All of His mighty works make known to mankind Who he is. Indeed his kingdom is forever, and cannot be moved.
He "upholds all who are falling, and raises up all who are bowed down." In other words, He is praised because He "is compassionate toward the weak and restores the erring" (RSB notes v.14).
While the eyes of all on earth are dependent on Him for all things (and most do not even realize it!), he has a special relationship with those who call on Him in truth (with a proper fear and understanding of Him and His greatness, and us, in our weakness).
He provides for all, but "he is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth."
"He fulfills the desire of those who fear him, He also hears their cry and saves them. The Lord preserves all who love Him......."
This is not prosperity gospel. I believe that when He promises to fulfill our desires, He is speaking not of whims and wishes necessarily, although He is gracious and kind to do so. No, He is promising to fill our desire for more of Him......our desire to know Him more, and be like Him. He leads us, and guides us, protects and saves us, for when we love Him, that is our desire.
But note: the last part of the sentence is this....."....but all the wicked He will destroy."
For those who don't love Him, or fear Him, or wait for Him, or long for Him, the kindness of His general grace will end at some point in time as we know it.
I agree with David....."My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord."
David begins this song with an exuberant declaration of praise for our God. He is worthy of praise forever and ever, and indeed it will be so! "His greatness is unsearchable." We will never know Him fully, or comprehend Him while here on this earth, but we can know His vastness, and be aware that we can't fathom the depths of His greatness.
His greatness is known from generation to generation, for one tells the other of His mighty works and deeds.
His Character is praised in verse 8-9 "The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all and His mercy is over all that he has made."
What other god is given such praise? What other god of the pagans has such relationship with his people?
All of His mighty works make known to mankind Who he is. Indeed his kingdom is forever, and cannot be moved.
He "upholds all who are falling, and raises up all who are bowed down." In other words, He is praised because He "is compassionate toward the weak and restores the erring" (RSB notes v.14).
While the eyes of all on earth are dependent on Him for all things (and most do not even realize it!), he has a special relationship with those who call on Him in truth (with a proper fear and understanding of Him and His greatness, and us, in our weakness).
He provides for all, but "he is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth."
"He fulfills the desire of those who fear him, He also hears their cry and saves them. The Lord preserves all who love Him......."
This is not prosperity gospel. I believe that when He promises to fulfill our desires, He is speaking not of whims and wishes necessarily, although He is gracious and kind to do so. No, He is promising to fill our desire for more of Him......our desire to know Him more, and be like Him. He leads us, and guides us, protects and saves us, for when we love Him, that is our desire.
But note: the last part of the sentence is this....."....but all the wicked He will destroy."
For those who don't love Him, or fear Him, or wait for Him, or long for Him, the kindness of His general grace will end at some point in time as we know it.
I agree with David....."My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord."
Monday, August 18, 2014
Psalm 144
A sure confidence in the Lord.
Never, never have I seen David, especially, waver in his confidence that the Lord is strong and true, faithful and steady, and will rescue from every situation. Never does he question God's presence or capability to handle anything that comes to him. He might complain in the form of prayer, but not in the sense of asking God, "what do you think you're doing?"
Here, he expresses a very confident faith in God, his protector. Rock. Fortress. High tower. Deliverer. Shield. Refuge. All of these are used to describe the Lord. Also, He "trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle. And in the middle of all of these 'strong' words, I noted the word "lovingkindness". The contrast really struck me. God is all of those things, but also a gentle, loving, and kind God.
As in prior psalms, David acknowledges his position before God. Small. Insignificant. Fleeting.
But God bows down to take knowledge of us, who are so far beneath Him. He, Who is infinite and great, takes notice of us, who are finite and small.
David uses cataclysmic language to describe the power of his God. Lightning, thunder, smoking mountians....all represent God's great power to rescue David from the 'great waters', of afflictions from his enemies.
One phrase is repeated twice with minor differences in verses 7b-8 and then verse 11:
"Rescue me and deliver me out of great waters, from the hand of foreigners whose mouth speaks lying words, and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood.".
After verse 7b and 8, David offers and promises praise and a new song to God for his deliverance.
After verse 11, he states that because of God's deliverance, the next generation will be blessed and prosper in all things.
"Happy are the people who are in such a state;
Happy are the people whose God is the Lord!"
Indeed!
Never, never have I seen David, especially, waver in his confidence that the Lord is strong and true, faithful and steady, and will rescue from every situation. Never does he question God's presence or capability to handle anything that comes to him. He might complain in the form of prayer, but not in the sense of asking God, "what do you think you're doing?"
Here, he expresses a very confident faith in God, his protector. Rock. Fortress. High tower. Deliverer. Shield. Refuge. All of these are used to describe the Lord. Also, He "trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle. And in the middle of all of these 'strong' words, I noted the word "lovingkindness". The contrast really struck me. God is all of those things, but also a gentle, loving, and kind God.
As in prior psalms, David acknowledges his position before God. Small. Insignificant. Fleeting.
But God bows down to take knowledge of us, who are so far beneath Him. He, Who is infinite and great, takes notice of us, who are finite and small.
David uses cataclysmic language to describe the power of his God. Lightning, thunder, smoking mountians....all represent God's great power to rescue David from the 'great waters', of afflictions from his enemies.
One phrase is repeated twice with minor differences in verses 7b-8 and then verse 11:
"Rescue me and deliver me out of great waters, from the hand of foreigners whose mouth speaks lying words, and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood.".
After verse 7b and 8, David offers and promises praise and a new song to God for his deliverance.
After verse 11, he states that because of God's deliverance, the next generation will be blessed and prosper in all things.
"Happy are the people who are in such a state;
Happy are the people whose God is the Lord!"
Indeed!
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Sunday, Lord's Day, August 17, 2014
Sunday School: I Kings 15:1-24 Abijam (Abijah in II Chronicles 13).
Abijam follows Rehoboam. In the very short account of his reign in I Kings 15, he is portrayed very negatively, having "walked in the sins of his father." But in I Chronicles, one positive story is given, in which Abijah (Abijam) responds to Jeroboam's declaration of war. He reminds Jeroboam of his sin, and that he is not of the line of David and not under the covenant. He also reminds him that Judah has NOT forsaken the Lord, and has kept the priests and worship as commanded by God. God does indeed fight for them, and Jeroboam is defeated. Abijam reigns for only 3 years, but is well established.
Asa follows Abijam. Asa does what is right in God's eyes, tearing down the idols and removes the cult prostitutes, and even his grandmother from being the queen mother. He restores the sacred things to the temple. II Chron 14 provides information that is not included in I Kings short account. Asa sees to the building of strong cities and walls during years of peace. He also built up a strong army. When Ethiopia comes out against him with an army one million strong, Asa cries out to God for help and God defeats the army soundly. Chapter 15 details the reforms he made, as in I Kings.
I Kings gives a brief account of Baasha, king of Israel building Ramah in order to block travel and trade in and out of Jerusalem. Asa is said to have robbed the temple of the sacred things he'd restored there earlier to pay off Ben-Hadad, king of Syria, to get him to fight Israel for him. Ben-Hadad does this, and Ramah is removed, timber by timber, stone by stone by the men of Judah, who use the plunder to build their own cities.
Chronicles goes a step further with the story, however. After the defeat of Israel by Ben-Hadad, God sends a seer with a message to Asa: You have depended on yourself and your own means, rather than rely on me, and now you will have war always. Asa does not respond well to God's word and punishes the seer, as well as some of the people. In his last years, he is diseased in his feet, still does not seek the Lord, and is buried, remembered well by the people.
***********
What a reminder that a good start isn't always followed by a good finish. We must not grow self sufficient (how often we do when the trial is over, even after acknowledging God's power and help). We must always rely upon Him. I think of Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
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Meditation from the bulletin: "Empty cisterns drive us to the Fountain." Rutherford.
>>Indeed. And the Fountain never does run dry, nor is it stingy, but ever so generous!
Sermon, Colossians 1:24-29 Ministry's Goal Rev. Bart Lester
"....present every man mature in Christ..."
This is the goal at Eastwood, and in the past we have had a reputation for such. It was the place for especially a young man to go who wanted to be taught well and trained to be a mature man of God. Women also.
May we not lose sight of this. >>Eastwood has certainly been that for me!
Paul, in this passage explains that this is done by proclaiming the Gospel clearly and correctly, according to the Word, rightly interpreted. Maturity comes from the proclamation of the Word, and cannot occur with out the Word of God being central.
'mature' (verse 22) = being wholly blameless and above reproach.
A life dominated by love as in I Cor. 13. and in I Tim 1:5 a pure heart and a good conscience.
This proclamation invites toil, labor and struggle, and meets resistance. For Paul, this meant suffering. Paul's statement in verse 24 about 'filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions." was explained better than I've ever heard. It isn't that Christs sufferings were not sufficient, or effective. But in Acts 9, when Christ confronts Paul on the road to Damascus, He doesn't ask him why he is persecuting the Christians, but "why are you persecuting Me.?" A Christian's suffering is Christ's suffering. He is not claiming to be a mediator, but indeed his sufferings point to Christ.
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It has been one long week of pain, medical testing, illness, and facing the reality of depression.
Arthritis pain is constant and every day, but isn't severe or disabling (yet) so I can deal with it.
Left chest pain was found to be non-cardiac, so I can deal with that too.
Depression isn't crippling or overwhelming, but naming it (Thanks Mal!) is a good thing, and a step in the right direction. Sharing the details with trusted friends and prayer warriors is good too.
What a blessing to serve a God who is never changing, though all else is shifting sand. Who will never leave or forsake me. Who will always provide for me....and knows better than I do exactly what I need and will say 'no' to the things I think I want that He has not ordained for me. Whose lovingkindness is new every morning, so that I am not consumed. Who heals me spiritually and physically.
The closing hymn this morning is one of my favorites, and fit so well......
Like a River Glorious, is God's perfect peace.
Over all victorious, in it's bright increase;
perfect yet it floweth, fuller every day,
perfect yet it groweth deeper all the way,
Hidden in the hollow of his blessed hand,
never foe can follow, never traitor stand,
not a surge of worry, not a shade of care,
not a blast of hurry touch the spirit there.
Every joy or trial falleth from above,
traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love.
We may trust him fully, all for us to do,
they who trust him wholly, find him wholly true.
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blessed. (psalm128:1 KJV)
Finding as he promised, perfect peace and rest.
Abijam follows Rehoboam. In the very short account of his reign in I Kings 15, he is portrayed very negatively, having "walked in the sins of his father." But in I Chronicles, one positive story is given, in which Abijah (Abijam) responds to Jeroboam's declaration of war. He reminds Jeroboam of his sin, and that he is not of the line of David and not under the covenant. He also reminds him that Judah has NOT forsaken the Lord, and has kept the priests and worship as commanded by God. God does indeed fight for them, and Jeroboam is defeated. Abijam reigns for only 3 years, but is well established.
Asa follows Abijam. Asa does what is right in God's eyes, tearing down the idols and removes the cult prostitutes, and even his grandmother from being the queen mother. He restores the sacred things to the temple. II Chron 14 provides information that is not included in I Kings short account. Asa sees to the building of strong cities and walls during years of peace. He also built up a strong army. When Ethiopia comes out against him with an army one million strong, Asa cries out to God for help and God defeats the army soundly. Chapter 15 details the reforms he made, as in I Kings.
I Kings gives a brief account of Baasha, king of Israel building Ramah in order to block travel and trade in and out of Jerusalem. Asa is said to have robbed the temple of the sacred things he'd restored there earlier to pay off Ben-Hadad, king of Syria, to get him to fight Israel for him. Ben-Hadad does this, and Ramah is removed, timber by timber, stone by stone by the men of Judah, who use the plunder to build their own cities.
Chronicles goes a step further with the story, however. After the defeat of Israel by Ben-Hadad, God sends a seer with a message to Asa: You have depended on yourself and your own means, rather than rely on me, and now you will have war always. Asa does not respond well to God's word and punishes the seer, as well as some of the people. In his last years, he is diseased in his feet, still does not seek the Lord, and is buried, remembered well by the people.
***********
What a reminder that a good start isn't always followed by a good finish. We must not grow self sufficient (how often we do when the trial is over, even after acknowledging God's power and help). We must always rely upon Him. I think of Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meditation from the bulletin: "Empty cisterns drive us to the Fountain." Rutherford.
>>Indeed. And the Fountain never does run dry, nor is it stingy, but ever so generous!
Sermon, Colossians 1:24-29 Ministry's Goal Rev. Bart Lester
"....present every man mature in Christ..."
This is the goal at Eastwood, and in the past we have had a reputation for such. It was the place for especially a young man to go who wanted to be taught well and trained to be a mature man of God. Women also.
May we not lose sight of this. >>Eastwood has certainly been that for me!
Paul, in this passage explains that this is done by proclaiming the Gospel clearly and correctly, according to the Word, rightly interpreted. Maturity comes from the proclamation of the Word, and cannot occur with out the Word of God being central.
'mature' (verse 22) = being wholly blameless and above reproach.
A life dominated by love as in I Cor. 13. and in I Tim 1:5 a pure heart and a good conscience.
This proclamation invites toil, labor and struggle, and meets resistance. For Paul, this meant suffering. Paul's statement in verse 24 about 'filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions." was explained better than I've ever heard. It isn't that Christs sufferings were not sufficient, or effective. But in Acts 9, when Christ confronts Paul on the road to Damascus, He doesn't ask him why he is persecuting the Christians, but "why are you persecuting Me.?" A Christian's suffering is Christ's suffering. He is not claiming to be a mediator, but indeed his sufferings point to Christ.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
It has been one long week of pain, medical testing, illness, and facing the reality of depression.
Arthritis pain is constant and every day, but isn't severe or disabling (yet) so I can deal with it.
Left chest pain was found to be non-cardiac, so I can deal with that too.
Depression isn't crippling or overwhelming, but naming it (Thanks Mal!) is a good thing, and a step in the right direction. Sharing the details with trusted friends and prayer warriors is good too.
What a blessing to serve a God who is never changing, though all else is shifting sand. Who will never leave or forsake me. Who will always provide for me....and knows better than I do exactly what I need and will say 'no' to the things I think I want that He has not ordained for me. Whose lovingkindness is new every morning, so that I am not consumed. Who heals me spiritually and physically.
The closing hymn this morning is one of my favorites, and fit so well......
Like a River Glorious, is God's perfect peace.
Over all victorious, in it's bright increase;
perfect yet it floweth, fuller every day,
perfect yet it groweth deeper all the way,
Hidden in the hollow of his blessed hand,
never foe can follow, never traitor stand,
not a surge of worry, not a shade of care,
not a blast of hurry touch the spirit there.
Every joy or trial falleth from above,
traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love.
We may trust him fully, all for us to do,
they who trust him wholly, find him wholly true.
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blessed. (psalm128:1 KJV)
Finding as he promised, perfect peace and rest.
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Psalm 143
David pleads for help, when there is no other resource.
He appeals to God's faithfulness and righteousness for help in a time of very deep trouble, Indeed he is crushed and beaten down.
But first, he acknowledges his position before God:
"enter not into judgement with your servant, for no one living is righteous before you. "
"David has measured his own heart in the sight of God and has learned that no one can pretend to be righteous at the bar of God's judgement." (RSB study note on verse 2.)
He pleads his case, complaining that te enemy has pursued him to the point of being crushed and like one dead, and his spirit faints, and his heart is appalled. David recalls a time when it wasn't so, and meditates on all that God has done, and in response stretches out his hands to his Maker, desiring His help and presence like the earth thirsts for water in a parched land.
He pleads for a quick answer because the situation is desperate and intense. He asks for a sure
answer by morning....but not only does he want deliverance, he asks for guidance also: "Make me know the way I should go, " and "Teach me to do Your will..." God's ways are righteous and His path is level.
God will rescue David.....for His own name's sake, and in his righteousness will deliver him from trouble. His steadfast love will rescue him from his enemies, and will destroy those who are not His servants.
He appeals to God's faithfulness and righteousness for help in a time of very deep trouble, Indeed he is crushed and beaten down.
But first, he acknowledges his position before God:
"enter not into judgement with your servant, for no one living is righteous before you. "
"David has measured his own heart in the sight of God and has learned that no one can pretend to be righteous at the bar of God's judgement." (RSB study note on verse 2.)
He pleads his case, complaining that te enemy has pursued him to the point of being crushed and like one dead, and his spirit faints, and his heart is appalled. David recalls a time when it wasn't so, and meditates on all that God has done, and in response stretches out his hands to his Maker, desiring His help and presence like the earth thirsts for water in a parched land.
He pleads for a quick answer because the situation is desperate and intense. He asks for a sure
answer by morning....but not only does he want deliverance, he asks for guidance also: "Make me know the way I should go, " and "Teach me to do Your will..." God's ways are righteous and His path is level.
God will rescue David.....for His own name's sake, and in his righteousness will deliver him from trouble. His steadfast love will rescue him from his enemies, and will destroy those who are not His servants.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Psalm 142
David once again finds himself in a cave......the specific occasion isn't given.
He is hiding, seeking refuge from his enemies.
NKJV notes focus on the word 'voice' in the first verse......suggesting that the intensity of the situation is such that he isn't just praying in his thoughts. He is 'pouring out' his complaint to God, declaring his troubles.
This makes me think of Psalm 139, a few days ago. David knows that God already knows his thoughts, his paths, and future. He could not, even if he wanted to, hide from God. So why pour out his complaint? We do not do this to inform God......He knows. It is for our good, our comfort, and our help that He has invited us to do so. Naming our troubles to Him helps us rest in Him. Why go to Him if He is not trustworthy? And He listens! With interest! And answers!
God sees our broken hearts. He knows the way that we are traveling, and what lies along that path, including the snares of the wicked. There is no refuge aside from God, so to Him David makes his cry.
God allows us to be brought low.....by adversity, depression, health issues,.....because it teaches us to run to Him, for there is no other refuge.
And He does, indeed, deal bountifully with us. Indeed.
He is hiding, seeking refuge from his enemies.
NKJV notes focus on the word 'voice' in the first verse......suggesting that the intensity of the situation is such that he isn't just praying in his thoughts. He is 'pouring out' his complaint to God, declaring his troubles.
This makes me think of Psalm 139, a few days ago. David knows that God already knows his thoughts, his paths, and future. He could not, even if he wanted to, hide from God. So why pour out his complaint? We do not do this to inform God......He knows. It is for our good, our comfort, and our help that He has invited us to do so. Naming our troubles to Him helps us rest in Him. Why go to Him if He is not trustworthy? And He listens! With interest! And answers!
God sees our broken hearts. He knows the way that we are traveling, and what lies along that path, including the snares of the wicked. There is no refuge aside from God, so to Him David makes his cry.
God allows us to be brought low.....by adversity, depression, health issues,.....because it teaches us to run to Him, for there is no other refuge.
And He does, indeed, deal bountifully with us. Indeed.
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Psalm 141
Deliverance from wickedness........my own, and that of others.
Often, David prays against the wicked.....for their judgement to fall fast upon them, in order that God's name be preserved. He does so here too, but first he very humbly seeks his own correction before the Lord.
He seeks God's attention, asking that his prayers be pleasant to Him, as incense on the alter. He seeks to approach God rightly, and asks for the Lord's watch over his own mouth to keep him from falling into the wicked ways of those that surround him. He knows the power of temptation, and asks for help before it strikes.
"Let he righteous strike me".... The rebuke of righteous brothers is a blessing. He asks for help in seeing this and not refusing wise counsel. He knows what God has said He will do to the wicked, how He will judge them, and he doesn't want to fall in that group.
Then, after guarding himself with these prayers, he asks for that judgement to fall.
"my prayer is against the deeds of the wicked."
But.....David's "eyes are upon ....the Lord." And as such, he will be helped. The wicked will fall into their own traps, for they do not seek the Lord, or follow His ways. But the righteous....will escape by God's help.
Often, David prays against the wicked.....for their judgement to fall fast upon them, in order that God's name be preserved. He does so here too, but first he very humbly seeks his own correction before the Lord.
He seeks God's attention, asking that his prayers be pleasant to Him, as incense on the alter. He seeks to approach God rightly, and asks for the Lord's watch over his own mouth to keep him from falling into the wicked ways of those that surround him. He knows the power of temptation, and asks for help before it strikes.
"Let he righteous strike me".... The rebuke of righteous brothers is a blessing. He asks for help in seeing this and not refusing wise counsel. He knows what God has said He will do to the wicked, how He will judge them, and he doesn't want to fall in that group.
Then, after guarding himself with these prayers, he asks for that judgement to fall.
"my prayer is against the deeds of the wicked."
But.....David's "eyes are upon ....the Lord." And as such, he will be helped. The wicked will fall into their own traps, for they do not seek the Lord, or follow His ways. But the righteous....will escape by God's help.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Psalm 140
David prays to the God of Psalm 139, who is intimately acquainted with him and 'hems" him in and searches his heart, to now deliver(v1)from evil, and protect (v4) from the wicked, and to preserve from the violent.
Reminiscent of earlier Psalms, David complains about the wicked all around him. They have risen up against him on every side, setting plans to snare him, make him stumble, and bring him down. They slander and scheme.
But David knows where to turn--acknowledging his God, who has already 'covered' his head in battle.
Please do not let the wicked's schemes and plans succeed! He prays for quick and harsh judgement against his enemies, knowing what God has already said about how He will do this. David longs to be justified, and to see the end of those who hate God.
He is confident.....knowing that the Lord will maintain His promises, and will deliver the afflicted. He will not forget His promises. The poor will receive justice, and the cause of the afflicted will be maintained. And God will be thanked. The light at the end of the tunnel is life in His presence forever.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Psalm 139
David......"meditates on the character of God, exploring God's wisdom, His omniscience, and His greatness as the Creator." RSB study notes for Psalm 139.
Well said.
I love this Psalm. It seems to speak better than any other of God's sovereignty and care over us, His intimate knowledge of us, and of our dependence upon Him, not in a slavish way, but as children dependent on a loving father.
The best I could do is to quote the entire Psalm, for it needs no commentary in my mind.
"O Lord, you have searched me and known me!
Well said.
I love this Psalm. It seems to speak better than any other of God's sovereignty and care over us, His intimate knowledge of us, and of our dependence upon Him, not in a slavish way, but as children dependent on a loving father.
The best I could do is to quote the entire Psalm, for it needs no commentary in my mind.
"O Lord, you have searched me and known me!
2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3 You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
4 Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.
5 You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3 You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
4 Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.
5 You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.
7 Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where shall I flee from your presence?
8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
9 If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10 even there your hand shall lead me,
and your right hand shall hold me.
11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light about me be night,”
12 even the darkness is not dark to you;
the night is bright as the day,
for darkness is as light with you.
Or where shall I flee from your presence?
8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
9 If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10 even there your hand shall lead me,
and your right hand shall hold me.
11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light about me be night,”
12 even the darkness is not dark to you;
the night is bright as the day,
for darkness is as light with you.
13 For you formed my inward parts;
you knitted me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.[a]
Wonderful are your works;
my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you,
when I was being made in secret,
intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance;
in your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.
you knitted me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.[a]
Wonderful are your works;
my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you,
when I was being made in secret,
intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance;
in your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 If I would count them, they are more than the sand.
I awake, and I am still with you.
How vast is the sum of them!
18 If I would count them, they are more than the sand.
I awake, and I am still with you.
19 Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God!
O men of blood, depart from me!
20 They speak against you with malicious intent;
your enemies take your name in vain.[b]
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?
22 I hate them with complete hatred;
I count them my enemies.
O men of blood, depart from me!
20 They speak against you with malicious intent;
your enemies take your name in vain.[b]
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?
22 I hate them with complete hatred;
I count them my enemies.
Monday, August 11, 2014
Psalm 138
Of David.
"I give You thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart,".......
What is the purpose of the qualifying word, "whole"? I am drawn to think of the opposite, in order to fully comprehend the meaning. What is the opposite of whole hearted thanks?
Half hearted. Lip service. Acknowledging the Lord with our words or works even (attending services, law keeping, etc.) but acting as if He isn't intimately involved with us, as if He doesn't see or hear, or know our sins.
So, whole hearted thanks comes from one who communes with God.....studies His Word to know Him, and understands his own place in light of His majesty and goodness. Indeed we owe thanks for everything. David got that.
"Before the gods...." Whether the pagan nations or angelic hosts, the intent is true, unashamed worship of God Almighty. He will not be shy about proclaiming His God in front of others.
God's Word is truth and has been proven. His Name (character) is sure and steadfast. All nations will see this and praise Him......someday.
He hears--and helps. He stoops to render attention to the lowly and contrite, but is far from the proud.
Even though in troubled times....God will help. He will save.
I love verse 8:
NKJV: "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy endures forever. Do not forsake the works of Your hands."
ESV: "The Lord will fulfill His purposes for me; Your steadfast love, O Lord endures forever,
Do not forsake the work of Your hands."
Yes. Yes He does. And will.
"I give You thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart,".......
What is the purpose of the qualifying word, "whole"? I am drawn to think of the opposite, in order to fully comprehend the meaning. What is the opposite of whole hearted thanks?
Half hearted. Lip service. Acknowledging the Lord with our words or works even (attending services, law keeping, etc.) but acting as if He isn't intimately involved with us, as if He doesn't see or hear, or know our sins.
So, whole hearted thanks comes from one who communes with God.....studies His Word to know Him, and understands his own place in light of His majesty and goodness. Indeed we owe thanks for everything. David got that.
"Before the gods...." Whether the pagan nations or angelic hosts, the intent is true, unashamed worship of God Almighty. He will not be shy about proclaiming His God in front of others.
God's Word is truth and has been proven. His Name (character) is sure and steadfast. All nations will see this and praise Him......someday.
He hears--and helps. He stoops to render attention to the lowly and contrite, but is far from the proud.
Even though in troubled times....God will help. He will save.
I love verse 8:
NKJV: "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy endures forever. Do not forsake the works of Your hands."
ESV: "The Lord will fulfill His purposes for me; Your steadfast love, O Lord endures forever,
Do not forsake the work of Your hands."
Yes. Yes He does. And will.
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Sunday, Lord's Day, August 10, 2014
Sunday School: I Kings 12:25 -14:20
The set up for Jeroboam's demise.
Key, I think, is God's sovereignty....even over the schemes his own people
propagate. He used even the lies of the prophet to accomplish His purposes, and
still spoke to him truth. He also spoke a true prophecy to the man of God from Judah, ...we know he was a true prophet because what he said did happen, but then that same man disobeyed God's instructions to him (aided by the lie of the old prophet) and God spoke thru the old prophet who'd lied, truth about the death of the man of God who had prophesied truth then disobeyed. What a tangled mess!
Secondly, that even God's own can/will be led astray.
bits and pieces from the lesson:
Consider each character:
Jeroboam, King of Israel, and recall the prophecy that the prophet Ahijah had given. Recall also that Solomon thought highly of him....he was very industrious. Little did Solomon know.......
The prophet Ahijah.
The man of God who came from Judah.
The old prophet who lived in Israel, whose sons, at least, were participating in the false worship that Jeroboam had instituted.
Jeroboam's wife.
Jeroboam was indeed industrious, and wise. He recognized that if the people went back to Jerusalem for corporate worship, their loyalty to the House of David would be renewed, and he would lose his kingdom. So, being very savvy, he 'bootleged' the orthodoxy.....the true religion and it's ways and forms that were instituted by God Himself, and created a form similar to it from his own heart. He sought counsel from his peers, rather than the men of God.
Read also the corresponding section of II Chronicles 12-13.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sermon: Colossians 4:2-6 final sermon, "What is the Character of Our Daily Words?" Rev Billy Joseph.
Good sermon, but I will have to be brief.......time is short and tomorrow is a long day @ work.
Our words...... so many 'words' in this passage speak of our words.....
prayer, thanksgiving, speaking a clear message, gracious, seasoned with salt, answering each person.
gracious.......in the Greek culture this meant witty, sparkling conversation....but Paul added a new dimension. Our speech needs to be filled with the love and favor of God toward us. Speaking of Him, giving Him glory. Full of grace to confess our sins and weaknesses.....not in a self degrading way, but just being honest and transparent.....humble and contrite.
Thanksgiving.......Not a negative person, (I cringe to think that I have been accused....rightly.....of this), But if we know God and understand what He has done for us, we will ooze thankfulness for every thing.
Salt......preserves. We need to provide help to others with our words. Speak the truth with love, truly, not flippantly. But also provide the encouragement and help to understand God's truth.
Salt also provides flavor.....our speech should make others desire to hear more of what we have to say.
Salt makes people thirsty.
Oh Father. I sigh in recognition of my weakness and failure. Help me, please.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
The words of this hymn were very meaningful to me this evening:
Be Still My Soul
Be still my soul: the Lord is on your side;
Bear patiently te cross of greif or pain;
leave to your God to order and profede;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still my soul: your best, your heavenly Friend
through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still my soul: your God will undertake
to guide the future as He has the past.
Your hope, your confidence let nothing shake;
all now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still my soul: when dearest friends depart,
and all is darkened in the vale of tears,
then shall you better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to sooth your sorrow and your fears.
Be still my soul: your Jesus can repay
from His own fullness all He takes away.
Be still my soul: the hour is hastening on
when we shall be forever with the Lord.
When disappointment, grief and fear are gone
sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still my soul: when change and tears are past,
all safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is my attitude for the most part, but it is good to sing it and see it written by another.
Through all the trials, sorrows, pains, and changes in this life; fears for the future and regrets from the past, He is sovereign over all.....and will supply all I need. I trust Him.....for He has done so in the past, and He will continue.
The set up for Jeroboam's demise.
Key, I think, is God's sovereignty....even over the schemes his own people
propagate. He used even the lies of the prophet to accomplish His purposes, and
still spoke to him truth. He also spoke a true prophecy to the man of God from Judah, ...we know he was a true prophet because what he said did happen, but then that same man disobeyed God's instructions to him (aided by the lie of the old prophet) and God spoke thru the old prophet who'd lied, truth about the death of the man of God who had prophesied truth then disobeyed. What a tangled mess!
Secondly, that even God's own can/will be led astray.
bits and pieces from the lesson:
Consider each character:
Jeroboam, King of Israel, and recall the prophecy that the prophet Ahijah had given. Recall also that Solomon thought highly of him....he was very industrious. Little did Solomon know.......
The prophet Ahijah.
The man of God who came from Judah.
The old prophet who lived in Israel, whose sons, at least, were participating in the false worship that Jeroboam had instituted.
Jeroboam's wife.
Jeroboam was indeed industrious, and wise. He recognized that if the people went back to Jerusalem for corporate worship, their loyalty to the House of David would be renewed, and he would lose his kingdom. So, being very savvy, he 'bootleged' the orthodoxy.....the true religion and it's ways and forms that were instituted by God Himself, and created a form similar to it from his own heart. He sought counsel from his peers, rather than the men of God.
Read also the corresponding section of II Chronicles 12-13.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sermon: Colossians 4:2-6 final sermon, "What is the Character of Our Daily Words?" Rev Billy Joseph.
Good sermon, but I will have to be brief.......time is short and tomorrow is a long day @ work.
Our words...... so many 'words' in this passage speak of our words.....
prayer, thanksgiving, speaking a clear message, gracious, seasoned with salt, answering each person.
gracious.......in the Greek culture this meant witty, sparkling conversation....but Paul added a new dimension. Our speech needs to be filled with the love and favor of God toward us. Speaking of Him, giving Him glory. Full of grace to confess our sins and weaknesses.....not in a self degrading way, but just being honest and transparent.....humble and contrite.
Thanksgiving.......Not a negative person, (I cringe to think that I have been accused....rightly.....of this), But if we know God and understand what He has done for us, we will ooze thankfulness for every thing.
Salt......preserves. We need to provide help to others with our words. Speak the truth with love, truly, not flippantly. But also provide the encouragement and help to understand God's truth.
Salt also provides flavor.....our speech should make others desire to hear more of what we have to say.
Salt makes people thirsty.
Oh Father. I sigh in recognition of my weakness and failure. Help me, please.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
The words of this hymn were very meaningful to me this evening:
Be Still My Soul
Be still my soul: the Lord is on your side;
Bear patiently te cross of greif or pain;
leave to your God to order and profede;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still my soul: your best, your heavenly Friend
through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still my soul: your God will undertake
to guide the future as He has the past.
Your hope, your confidence let nothing shake;
all now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still my soul: when dearest friends depart,
and all is darkened in the vale of tears,
then shall you better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to sooth your sorrow and your fears.
Be still my soul: your Jesus can repay
from His own fullness all He takes away.
Be still my soul: the hour is hastening on
when we shall be forever with the Lord.
When disappointment, grief and fear are gone
sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still my soul: when change and tears are past,
all safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is my attitude for the most part, but it is good to sing it and see it written by another.
Through all the trials, sorrows, pains, and changes in this life; fears for the future and regrets from the past, He is sovereign over all.....and will supply all I need. I trust Him.....for He has done so in the past, and He will continue.
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