I Samuel 16 – 17
Isn’t interesting to see how God’s path is placed before David? He is simply out tending to the sheep. We know that he was living his “everyday, normal life” in a way that honored God because I Samuel 13:14 says that he was a “man after God’s own heart”.
Samuel was sent on a mission to anoint a new king for Israel. He thought he knew what he was looking for, but God had to redirect his thoughts. I Samuel 16:7 explains “The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” David was anointed.
We read that the Spirit of the LORD came upon David and that the Spirit of the LORD left Saul. Saul was tormented by an evil spirit, and God’s path for David led him straight to Saul. David did not go looking for Saul. Saul sent his attendants for David. Saul liked David because he brought peace to Saul that he could not explain.
Again, we see David simply living his “everyday, normal life” when he is sent to check on his older brothers who had followed Saul into war against the Philistines. Here he comes in contact with Goliath – “an uncircumcised Philistine who defied the armies of the living God.”
He must have been a sight. All of the Israelite men were afraid of him. Remember in
I Samuel 13:16-22 we were told that the Philistines controlled the iron and bronze in the country. The Israelites, with the exception of Saul and Jonathan, did not have swords or spears. And here comes Goliath with a bronze helmet, a bronze coat of scale armor, bronze leg protectors, a bronze javelin, a spear, and a shield. Slightly intimidating? Not to mention that he was HUGE!
David’s response shows his heart. No one – AND I MEAN, NO ONE – is going to belittle his God. David recognized that by simply living his “everyday, normal life”, God had prepared him for this moment. He had the skills necessary (even though they didn’t seem that impressive), but, more importantly, he had God.
Now here is the cool part of the story…the symbolism. Picture this. You have David – the one who cares for sheep – the one whose name means “beloved” – the one who is after God’s own heart VERSUS Goliath who definitely represents the uncircumcised, evil in the world led by Satan. The cool thing is not only the fact that David won – but how he won.
Remember in Genesis 3 when God was giving Satan his punishment in the garden for deceiving Eve? God said, “He will crush your head.” How did David kill Goliath? He crushed his head. YES! God still triumphs over Satan! His story continues. The battle between God and Satan continues, but as David said, “The battle is the Lord’s.”
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
February 28...
I Samuel 15
Why is obedience important? Today we see the effects of disobedience, and we see how far the consequences can linger. The Israelites had a history with the Amalekites, and God had stated what would happen to them in the future.
The Amalekites were the first to attack the Israelites after they left Egypt, and God told Moses to write the following on a scroll as something to be remembered: “I will completely blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” (Exodus 17:8-16)
The Israelites are told to “remember what the Amalekites did to you”. They were told that after they gained possession of the Promised Land they would “blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven. Do not forget!” (Deuteronomy 25:17-19).
And, now, the time has come. Saul is leading the Israelites and the order is delivered through Samuel. Read I Samuel 15:2-3 again. It is very specific – do not spare anyone. Remember, God had said that He would blot them out completely. Did Saul obey? No.
What is worse is that he tried to cover up his disobedience. First, he denied his disobedience and claimed that he obeyed. Then, he justified his disobedience by saying that he was thinking about God and saving the best for Him.
If you want a glimpse into God’s heart, look at verses 22-23 again. “To obey is better than sacrifice.” God wants us to obey. He has a big picture – and things would go much better if His servants would OBEY. Not partially. Not half-way. COMPLETELY OBEY.
So what does it matter that Saul disobeyed this one “minor” detail of God’s directions? Well, for Saul, he was rejected as king. For Israel, they would come in contact with the descendants of Agag, the Amalekite, again later. (Do you remember a guy by the name of Haman in the book of Esther? – He didn’t care too much for the Jewish people.)
Think about it:
Does our disobedience affect God’s big picture? If so, how?
Do you try to cover up your disobedience by denying it?
Do you try to cover up your disobedience by justifying it?
Remember, God is interested in your heart. He is not interested in the social Christianity scene. If you are just going through the motions …. STOP. He is not interested. He is interested in you, your heart, your mind, your soul, your actions … all of you. Give it to Him today.
Why is obedience important? Today we see the effects of disobedience, and we see how far the consequences can linger. The Israelites had a history with the Amalekites, and God had stated what would happen to them in the future.
The Amalekites were the first to attack the Israelites after they left Egypt, and God told Moses to write the following on a scroll as something to be remembered: “I will completely blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” (Exodus 17:8-16)
The Israelites are told to “remember what the Amalekites did to you”. They were told that after they gained possession of the Promised Land they would “blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven. Do not forget!” (Deuteronomy 25:17-19).
And, now, the time has come. Saul is leading the Israelites and the order is delivered through Samuel. Read I Samuel 15:2-3 again. It is very specific – do not spare anyone. Remember, God had said that He would blot them out completely. Did Saul obey? No.
What is worse is that he tried to cover up his disobedience. First, he denied his disobedience and claimed that he obeyed. Then, he justified his disobedience by saying that he was thinking about God and saving the best for Him.
If you want a glimpse into God’s heart, look at verses 22-23 again. “To obey is better than sacrifice.” God wants us to obey. He has a big picture – and things would go much better if His servants would OBEY. Not partially. Not half-way. COMPLETELY OBEY.
So what does it matter that Saul disobeyed this one “minor” detail of God’s directions? Well, for Saul, he was rejected as king. For Israel, they would come in contact with the descendants of Agag, the Amalekite, again later. (Do you remember a guy by the name of Haman in the book of Esther? – He didn’t care too much for the Jewish people.)
Think about it:
Does our disobedience affect God’s big picture? If so, how?
Do you try to cover up your disobedience by denying it?
Do you try to cover up your disobedience by justifying it?
Remember, God is interested in your heart. He is not interested in the social Christianity scene. If you are just going through the motions …. STOP. He is not interested. He is interested in you, your heart, your mind, your soul, your actions … all of you. Give it to Him today.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
February 27...
I Samuel 14
think about it...
have you ever picked a fight for God?
no, not being obnoxious or saying "you're going to hell" to someone. i mean, stepping up when someone is doing wrong and making it right for God?
does this story surprise you?
how does jonathan's armor bearer react?
do you have any friends that would act that way towards you if you stood up for the kid that everyone is making fun of? or if you decide not to cheat on a test?
or let me ask you this... are you hanging around people with faith like jonathan's? others that are leading you into battle for God?
or are the ones you hang with the ones making fun, cheating, drinking, and lying to parents? are you willing to be that person?
are you willing to choose God? after all, read verse 6-7 again... now "that's" being bold WITH God...
think about it...
have you ever picked a fight for God?
no, not being obnoxious or saying "you're going to hell" to someone. i mean, stepping up when someone is doing wrong and making it right for God?
does this story surprise you?
how does jonathan's armor bearer react?
do you have any friends that would act that way towards you if you stood up for the kid that everyone is making fun of? or if you decide not to cheat on a test?
or let me ask you this... are you hanging around people with faith like jonathan's? others that are leading you into battle for God?
or are the ones you hang with the ones making fun, cheating, drinking, and lying to parents? are you willing to be that person?
are you willing to choose God? after all, read verse 6-7 again... now "that's" being bold WITH God...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
February 26...
I Samuel 12-13
Samuel passed the torch of leadership and gave a farewell speech similar to the speeches given by Moses and Joshua right before they died. He retold their story – from Egypt to the present day, where they had been given a king.
Then Samuel stated the command for the Israelites and their new king: If you (1) fear the LORD, (2) serve Him faithfully with all your heart, (3) obey Him, (4) do not rebel against Him, and (5) follow Him … the results would be good. BUT if you (1) do not obey, (2) rebel against Him, and (3) do evil … His hand will be against you and you and your king will be swept away. It was pretty straight forward.
Yesterday we read in chapter 10 verse 8 a list of commands which Saul was to follow which ended with going ahead of Samuel to Gilgal and waiting for him to come and sacrifice the offerings and give Saul further instruction.
Time was running out. The men started scattering, and Saul became afraid. He panicked and moved ahead of God, and when Samuel arrived, he told Saul that he had acted foolishly.
The result? Saul’s kingdom would not endure. It comes down to a very basic fact. God’s servants must trust Him enough that they will obey Him – even when it seems that everything is going wrong … even when it seems that time is running out … even when it seems that God isn’t showing up.
Do you trust that God will show up?
Do you panic when it seems time is running out?
Do you move ahead of God?
Waiting on God is one of the most difficult spiritual disciplines to learn, but we must learn to be patient in Him. Try it this week. It’s amazing. He does show up.
think about it...
what kind of power does a king have?
why is samuel so upset at the israelites?
is he upset they've rejected him as their leader or God?
what is the israelites track record? what does samuel say about that?
how does israel respond to samuel calling them out? repentant or unaffected?
why is samuel upset at saul?
what are the consequences for saul?
why is it hard to wait and do things God's way, instead of doing things God's way?
Samuel passed the torch of leadership and gave a farewell speech similar to the speeches given by Moses and Joshua right before they died. He retold their story – from Egypt to the present day, where they had been given a king.
Then Samuel stated the command for the Israelites and their new king: If you (1) fear the LORD, (2) serve Him faithfully with all your heart, (3) obey Him, (4) do not rebel against Him, and (5) follow Him … the results would be good. BUT if you (1) do not obey, (2) rebel against Him, and (3) do evil … His hand will be against you and you and your king will be swept away. It was pretty straight forward.
Yesterday we read in chapter 10 verse 8 a list of commands which Saul was to follow which ended with going ahead of Samuel to Gilgal and waiting for him to come and sacrifice the offerings and give Saul further instruction.
Time was running out. The men started scattering, and Saul became afraid. He panicked and moved ahead of God, and when Samuel arrived, he told Saul that he had acted foolishly.
The result? Saul’s kingdom would not endure. It comes down to a very basic fact. God’s servants must trust Him enough that they will obey Him – even when it seems that everything is going wrong … even when it seems that time is running out … even when it seems that God isn’t showing up.
Do you trust that God will show up?
Do you panic when it seems time is running out?
Do you move ahead of God?
Waiting on God is one of the most difficult spiritual disciplines to learn, but we must learn to be patient in Him. Try it this week. It’s amazing. He does show up.
think about it...
what kind of power does a king have?
why is samuel so upset at the israelites?
is he upset they've rejected him as their leader or God?
what is the israelites track record? what does samuel say about that?
how does israel respond to samuel calling them out? repentant or unaffected?
why is samuel upset at saul?
what are the consequences for saul?
why is it hard to wait and do things God's way, instead of doing things God's way?
February 25...
I Samuel 9-11
Saul had it all. He stood out because of his physical superiority. God chose him as the first king of Israel. God gave him specific instructions to see if he would listen and obey, and Saul had an incredible experience with God where God changed Saul’s heart. Saul successfully led the rescue of Jabesh and united the 12 tribes.
How is having a king different from having a judge at this point?
God gave in to the demand of the Israelites for a king, but in all other nations, kings had absolute power. In Israel, however, God was all powerful and the king was to serve Him. Would Saul be able to be a servant king?
Does God take bad decisions and use them for His own purposes? If so, how?
Are we truly a nation under God? Does our country’s leadership see themselves as under His authority?
Saul had it all. He stood out because of his physical superiority. God chose him as the first king of Israel. God gave him specific instructions to see if he would listen and obey, and Saul had an incredible experience with God where God changed Saul’s heart. Saul successfully led the rescue of Jabesh and united the 12 tribes.
How is having a king different from having a judge at this point?
God gave in to the demand of the Israelites for a king, but in all other nations, kings had absolute power. In Israel, however, God was all powerful and the king was to serve Him. Would Saul be able to be a servant king?
Does God take bad decisions and use them for His own purposes? If so, how?
Are we truly a nation under God? Does our country’s leadership see themselves as under His authority?
Monday, February 23, 2009
February 24...
Deuteronomy 17:14-20; I Samuel 8
The Grass Is Always Greener
Ever heard that saying “The Grass Is Always Greener on the Other Side”? It sometimes seems that other people have it easier or better when we are looking at them from the outside. And so it was with Israel.
Israel asked for a king. Was this a surprise? It shouldn’t have been. God told them that after they took possession of the land and settled in it, they would want a king like all the nations around them – and he told them what to do when they found themselves asking for a king. He told them to appoint a king that He would choose. He gave them guidelines for their king. The problem was that they didn’t want a king like God had described – they wanted a king “like the other nations”. They wanted a king like one the world would choose.
Samuel was angry because he knew that they had the most incredible king, God, and that they were rejecting Him as their king. God was unhappy because once again the Israelites would not listen to Him and obey Him. So God told Samuel to explain the consequences of their decision which included all kinds of sacrifice and hardship on their part, but the biggie was that they would “cry out for relief from the king they had chosen, and the LORD would not answer”.
You would think that that would be enough to make them take a breath and think about what they were asking for – but no. The Israelites heard all of this and still responded, “No. We want a king over us. Then we will be like the other nations.”
Kind of sounds like a spoiled child right? And God gave an incredible example of “tough love”. He said, “Fine. Give them what they want.” How it had to hurt His heart! How it had to make Samuel frustrated! But they gave them over to what they wanted …. which is scary when our desires don’t match the desires of God.
Today, you face the same decision that the Israelites did. Who (or what) do you want as your king (master)?
Are you looking at others thinking that their life is better than yours?
Are you willing to give up your incredible King for a worldly king?
Do your desires match God’s desires?
Be careful, the day may come with God says, “Give him what he wants.” And what follows is never good.
This was adapted from Ray Vander Laan’s study “Give Us A King” (www.followtherabbi.com)
The Grass Is Always Greener
Ever heard that saying “The Grass Is Always Greener on the Other Side”? It sometimes seems that other people have it easier or better when we are looking at them from the outside. And so it was with Israel.
Israel asked for a king. Was this a surprise? It shouldn’t have been. God told them that after they took possession of the land and settled in it, they would want a king like all the nations around them – and he told them what to do when they found themselves asking for a king. He told them to appoint a king that He would choose. He gave them guidelines for their king. The problem was that they didn’t want a king like God had described – they wanted a king “like the other nations”. They wanted a king like one the world would choose.
Samuel was angry because he knew that they had the most incredible king, God, and that they were rejecting Him as their king. God was unhappy because once again the Israelites would not listen to Him and obey Him. So God told Samuel to explain the consequences of their decision which included all kinds of sacrifice and hardship on their part, but the biggie was that they would “cry out for relief from the king they had chosen, and the LORD would not answer”.
You would think that that would be enough to make them take a breath and think about what they were asking for – but no. The Israelites heard all of this and still responded, “No. We want a king over us. Then we will be like the other nations.”
Kind of sounds like a spoiled child right? And God gave an incredible example of “tough love”. He said, “Fine. Give them what they want.” How it had to hurt His heart! How it had to make Samuel frustrated! But they gave them over to what they wanted …. which is scary when our desires don’t match the desires of God.
Today, you face the same decision that the Israelites did. Who (or what) do you want as your king (master)?
Are you looking at others thinking that their life is better than yours?
Are you willing to give up your incredible King for a worldly king?
Do your desires match God’s desires?
Be careful, the day may come with God says, “Give him what he wants.” And what follows is never good.
This was adapted from Ray Vander Laan’s study “Give Us A King” (www.followtherabbi.com)
Sunday, February 22, 2009
February 23...
I Samuel 5-7
I love this story because it gives us a glimpse of how God works! Yesterday we asked, “Why did God allow the Philistines to take the Ark of the Covenant?” And in today’s reading we see God working to convince a pagan people that He is the one true God!
Okay … some of the Philistines in Ashdod got the message quickly after seeing their god “bowing down” face down in front of the ark the first day and “bowing down” without a head or hands in front of the ark the second day. However, it took a bit more for others to get the point -- devastation including rats, tumors, and death had to come. But the rulers weren’t yet convinced that it was all related to the ark – so they sent it to another Philistine town, Gath.
Again the same thing happened – what a coincidence! So they decided to move it to another town, Ekron, but the people cried out and were afraid! Go figure! Sure enough devastation, tumors, and death – again. It only took 7 months to figure this pattern out! So they finally decided to return the ark to Israel.
Interestingly enough – the Philistine priests and diviners recognized that the Philistines should make a guilt offering to this God of Israel in order to be healed and forgiven. BUT the strange thing is they set up a test to see if all of this was because of God or because of chance. They still didn’t really know – and the test they set up was rigged to go in their favor and say it was all due to chance.
The cows pulling the cart were not trained to pull a cart (they had never been yoked) and they were momma cows with calves. What momma cow is going to voluntarily leave her young behind? The test was set up to show that God was nothing and it all happened by chance.
God is so much bigger than that! Those cows went exactly where He guided them proving to the Philistines that the LORD was the one in charge, AND it seems that a pretty strong message was sent to the Israelites, too. Can you imagine being in the field and seeing an unmanned cart returning the ark that had been gone for seven months?
It seemed natural to want to look inside of the ark to make sure that all of the holy things were still in there – but there was one problem – in Numbers 4:20 God specifically said “do not look at the holy things, even for a moment, or you will die”. And that is exactly what happened.
The pattern of the judges returned – the people cried out – and Samuel, their judge, spoke to them. His message? Purge that which is ungodly from your life. Confess that you have sinned against Him. Recommit to serve Him only, and return to Him with all your heart. And He will deliver you.
Think about it:
Do you recognize that coincidences can actually be God working to teach something to you or someone else? Do you have any examples in your life of this happening?
Do you set up “tests” for God that are rigged to get the answer that you are wanting?
Do you make decisions based on what seems natural or based on what God has said to do?
Are you struggling today in your walk with God? If so, listen to the message from Samuel. Purge that which is ungodly from your life. Confess that you have sinned against Him. Recommit to serve Him only, and return to Him with all your heart. And He will deliver you.
I love this story because it gives us a glimpse of how God works! Yesterday we asked, “Why did God allow the Philistines to take the Ark of the Covenant?” And in today’s reading we see God working to convince a pagan people that He is the one true God!
Okay … some of the Philistines in Ashdod got the message quickly after seeing their god “bowing down” face down in front of the ark the first day and “bowing down” without a head or hands in front of the ark the second day. However, it took a bit more for others to get the point -- devastation including rats, tumors, and death had to come. But the rulers weren’t yet convinced that it was all related to the ark – so they sent it to another Philistine town, Gath.
Again the same thing happened – what a coincidence! So they decided to move it to another town, Ekron, but the people cried out and were afraid! Go figure! Sure enough devastation, tumors, and death – again. It only took 7 months to figure this pattern out! So they finally decided to return the ark to Israel.
Interestingly enough – the Philistine priests and diviners recognized that the Philistines should make a guilt offering to this God of Israel in order to be healed and forgiven. BUT the strange thing is they set up a test to see if all of this was because of God or because of chance. They still didn’t really know – and the test they set up was rigged to go in their favor and say it was all due to chance.
The cows pulling the cart were not trained to pull a cart (they had never been yoked) and they were momma cows with calves. What momma cow is going to voluntarily leave her young behind? The test was set up to show that God was nothing and it all happened by chance.
God is so much bigger than that! Those cows went exactly where He guided them proving to the Philistines that the LORD was the one in charge, AND it seems that a pretty strong message was sent to the Israelites, too. Can you imagine being in the field and seeing an unmanned cart returning the ark that had been gone for seven months?
It seemed natural to want to look inside of the ark to make sure that all of the holy things were still in there – but there was one problem – in Numbers 4:20 God specifically said “do not look at the holy things, even for a moment, or you will die”. And that is exactly what happened.
The pattern of the judges returned – the people cried out – and Samuel, their judge, spoke to them. His message? Purge that which is ungodly from your life. Confess that you have sinned against Him. Recommit to serve Him only, and return to Him with all your heart. And He will deliver you.
Think about it:
Do you recognize that coincidences can actually be God working to teach something to you or someone else? Do you have any examples in your life of this happening?
Do you set up “tests” for God that are rigged to get the answer that you are wanting?
Do you make decisions based on what seems natural or based on what God has said to do?
Are you struggling today in your walk with God? If so, listen to the message from Samuel. Purge that which is ungodly from your life. Confess that you have sinned against Him. Recommit to serve Him only, and return to Him with all your heart. And He will deliver you.
February 22...
I Samuel 3-4
I Samuel 3:7 tells us that “Samuel did not yet know the Lord; the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.” Eli taught Samuel how to respond to God’s call.
When Samuel shared with Eli the vision God gave him – Eli’s response was “He is the LORD: let Him do what is good in His eyes.”
Samuel became a faithful servant for God. Eli honored God before himself, his sons, or even Samuel. But tragedy struck Eli’s home, and tragedy struck the Israelite nation.
Why did God allow the Israelites to be defeated by the Philistines?
Why did God allow the ark of the covenant to be taken by Israel’s enemy?
How do you think Eli’s death will affect Samuel?
I Samuel 3:7 tells us that “Samuel did not yet know the Lord; the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.” Eli taught Samuel how to respond to God’s call.
When Samuel shared with Eli the vision God gave him – Eli’s response was “He is the LORD: let Him do what is good in His eyes.”
Samuel became a faithful servant for God. Eli honored God before himself, his sons, or even Samuel. But tragedy struck Eli’s home, and tragedy struck the Israelite nation.
Why did God allow the Israelites to be defeated by the Philistines?
Why did God allow the ark of the covenant to be taken by Israel’s enemy?
How do you think Eli’s death will affect Samuel?
Saturday, February 21, 2009
February 21...
Leviticus 7:28-36, I Samuel 1-2
What affects whether or not a child grows up and serves the LORD? Is it the parent’s relationship with God? Is it the home environment? Is it the relationship between a parent and a child? Is it the relationship between another significant adult and a child?
Today we read about two sets of parents who were godly people … Elkanah and Hannah and Eli. In these first two chapters, we don’t really know how Samuel turned out, but we know that Eli’s sons (who were priests) are called “wicked men”.
Hannah placed God first and gave Him her firstborn son, Samuel, because he heard her cries of desperation.
Eli, according to God, honored his sons more than he honored God. Eli knew the rules, but he didn’t insist that his sons follow the rules … and the consequences were great.
It is strange that we find ourselves discussing parenting and being parented today – but this is serious stuff. Check out these scriptures:
Ephesians 6:1-4 “Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ – which is the first commandment with a promise – that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth. Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Deuteronomy 21:18-21 “Suppose a man has a stubborn, rebellious son who will not obey his father or mother, even though they discipline him. In such cases, the father and mother must take the son before the leaders of the town. They must declare: ‘This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious and refuses to obey. He is a worthless drunkard.’ Then all the men of the town must stone him to death. In this way, you will cleanse this evil from among you, and all Israel will hear about it and be afraid.”
Parents – think about it:
Do you honor your kids more than you honor God?
Do you use God’s word to teach, rebuke, correct, and train your child in righteousness to equip him/her for every good work with God’s Word?
Fathers, do you exasperate your children?
Are you bringing your children up in the training and instruction of the Lord?
Do your kids see your relationship with God?
If the consequences for rebellion were the same as that described in Deuteronomy 21, would your parenting change?
Teens – think about it:
Do you honor your father and mother?
Do you obey your parents?
Do you listen when they try to teach, rebuke, correct, and train you in righteousness with God’s Word?
If the consequences for rebellion were the same as that described in Deuteronomy 21, would your obedience change?
What affects whether or not a child grows up and serves the LORD? Is it the parent’s relationship with God? Is it the home environment? Is it the relationship between a parent and a child? Is it the relationship between another significant adult and a child?
Today we read about two sets of parents who were godly people … Elkanah and Hannah and Eli. In these first two chapters, we don’t really know how Samuel turned out, but we know that Eli’s sons (who were priests) are called “wicked men”.
Hannah placed God first and gave Him her firstborn son, Samuel, because he heard her cries of desperation.
Eli, according to God, honored his sons more than he honored God. Eli knew the rules, but he didn’t insist that his sons follow the rules … and the consequences were great.
It is strange that we find ourselves discussing parenting and being parented today – but this is serious stuff. Check out these scriptures:
Ephesians 6:1-4 “Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ – which is the first commandment with a promise – that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth. Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Deuteronomy 21:18-21 “Suppose a man has a stubborn, rebellious son who will not obey his father or mother, even though they discipline him. In such cases, the father and mother must take the son before the leaders of the town. They must declare: ‘This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious and refuses to obey. He is a worthless drunkard.’ Then all the men of the town must stone him to death. In this way, you will cleanse this evil from among you, and all Israel will hear about it and be afraid.”
Parents – think about it:
Do you honor your kids more than you honor God?
Do you use God’s word to teach, rebuke, correct, and train your child in righteousness to equip him/her for every good work with God’s Word?
Fathers, do you exasperate your children?
Are you bringing your children up in the training and instruction of the Lord?
Do your kids see your relationship with God?
If the consequences for rebellion were the same as that described in Deuteronomy 21, would your parenting change?
Teens – think about it:
Do you honor your father and mother?
Do you obey your parents?
Do you listen when they try to teach, rebuke, correct, and train you in righteousness with God’s Word?
If the consequences for rebellion were the same as that described in Deuteronomy 21, would your obedience change?
Thursday, February 19, 2009
February 20...
Judges 16
Samson’s first major weakness was his temper. His second major weakness was his poor choice in companions. This third major weakness was the he started placing himself on the “throne” instead of God – he forgot God.
It was gradual – definitely not intentional. But the sad result was “he did not know that the LORD had left him.” Casting Crowns has a great song describing this exact thing – it is called Slow Fade. You see people don’t crumble in a day – it’s a slow fade.
In the end, Samson’s heart softened towards God and he was restored to Him. Hebrews 11:32 says that Samson was among those who were living by faith when they died. So where are you?
Walking away from God doesn’t happen in a day – or with one decision.
But what you do on any given day or with any given decision can definitely affect what road you are choosing. Are you walking closer to Him – or away from Him?
Do you have an out of control temper? Are you choosing good companions? Are you placing yourself on the “throne”?
Are you in a slow fade?
Samson’s first major weakness was his temper. His second major weakness was his poor choice in companions. This third major weakness was the he started placing himself on the “throne” instead of God – he forgot God.
It was gradual – definitely not intentional. But the sad result was “he did not know that the LORD had left him.” Casting Crowns has a great song describing this exact thing – it is called Slow Fade. You see people don’t crumble in a day – it’s a slow fade.
In the end, Samson’s heart softened towards God and he was restored to Him. Hebrews 11:32 says that Samson was among those who were living by faith when they died. So where are you?
Walking away from God doesn’t happen in a day – or with one decision.
But what you do on any given day or with any given decision can definitely affect what road you are choosing. Are you walking closer to Him – or away from Him?
Do you have an out of control temper? Are you choosing good companions? Are you placing yourself on the “throne”?
Are you in a slow fade?
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
February 19...
Judges 14-15
think about it...
what does this passage (14: 4) say that God was working through? something good? or something bad?
is that confusing? does God allow bad things to happen?
what about a bad family situation?
what about a birth defect?
what about a tragedy?
is God always at work for His Glory? or at work just for you to have a "better life"?
what part did samson's judgement and short fuse play in his problems?
does he seem like a noble hero or a spoiled brat?
why is this story even in the Bible? samson makes so many mistakes... and we haven't even read his whole story yet!
while reading this story about samson... especially the way that samson talks to God at the end of ch 15, what impression do you get of God?
is He a "neat-in-the-box" God, or maybe even "a-little-wild" God? what do you think? why?
think about it...
what does this passage (14: 4) say that God was working through? something good? or something bad?
is that confusing? does God allow bad things to happen?
what about a bad family situation?
what about a birth defect?
what about a tragedy?
is God always at work for His Glory? or at work just for you to have a "better life"?
what part did samson's judgement and short fuse play in his problems?
does he seem like a noble hero or a spoiled brat?
why is this story even in the Bible? samson makes so many mistakes... and we haven't even read his whole story yet!
while reading this story about samson... especially the way that samson talks to God at the end of ch 15, what impression do you get of God?
is He a "neat-in-the-box" God, or maybe even "a-little-wild" God? what do you think? why?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
February 18...
Judges 13
think about it:
what is a common theme at the beginning of our readings with the Judges?
when they obey God they have ...?
why was it so important to wipe out the other nations as they moved into the promise land?
what do you think the angels name must have been? pretty weird huh?
God spoke to the parents, because it depended on them on whether or not their child followed the rules and God could use him. what do think is God's role for the family?
is God's Spirit already at work in you?
how have your parents contributed to that?
what is your part of God's work in you?
think about it:
what is a common theme at the beginning of our readings with the Judges?
when they obey God they have ...?
why was it so important to wipe out the other nations as they moved into the promise land?
what do you think the angels name must have been? pretty weird huh?
God spoke to the parents, because it depended on them on whether or not their child followed the rules and God could use him. what do think is God's role for the family?
is God's Spirit already at work in you?
how have your parents contributed to that?
what is your part of God's work in you?
Who's tunning in?
if you are not from abilene texas, let us know where you are from if you are reading along with us! we'd love to know who's jumping in with us to the BIG STORY!
February 17...
Sorry... yesterday i posted this one on accident... this is today's reading. so, you can skip back and pick up RUTH 1-2
Ruth 3-4
BLESSED
Naomi has shown great concern for Ruth and her well-being, and Ruth has become known as a woman of noble character. Boaz has shown himself to be a godly man who was a kinsmen-redeemer.
What is a kinsmen-redeemer?
Under Old Testament Law, a near relative could redeem a poor relative from slavery by paying the required debt or could redeem a relative’s property by paying the value for the property.
Boaz was willing to purchase Elimelech’s property, but there was another relative who was more closely related who would get first right to purchase the property as a kinsmen-redeemer. The man was willing to purchase property, but was not willing to take Ruth as his wife.
Boaz was willing to take Ruth as his wife as well as buy the land that belonged to Elimelech. God blessed them with a son. And, later, their great-grandson was Israel’s great King David!
Naomi was blessed not only because the family’s name would not die, but because her daughter-in-law was well cared for and she received a grandson! Her family was truly redeemed.
But again, is there a bigger picture?
1. How would the relationship between the Israelites and their despised enemies, the Moabites, change because of this new relationship?
2. Was God’s love available for people other than the Israelites?
3. How is it significant that Rahab and Ruth are in the family tree of King David and Jesus?
Interestingly enough, Ruth means “companion” and Boaz mean “strength”. Ruth was a companion to many. She had incredible character, unending devotion, and amazing humility. Boaz was a man of great strength – especially in character, honor, and obedience to God. Although hard times took Naomi and Ruth on a tough path, they were both richly blessed because of their faith in God.
Can you think of another kinsmen-redeemer?
Jesus became our kinsmen-redeemer. He became our kinsmen by becoming human which made it possible for Him to redeem us. We were slaves to sin, and He paid our debt to redeem us and set us free. (Hebrews 2:14-17) Unfortunately, our debt was very high – it was death. What an incredible act of love. We have been redeemed – and we are truly BLESSED!!
Ruth 3-4
BLESSED
Naomi has shown great concern for Ruth and her well-being, and Ruth has become known as a woman of noble character. Boaz has shown himself to be a godly man who was a kinsmen-redeemer.
What is a kinsmen-redeemer?
Under Old Testament Law, a near relative could redeem a poor relative from slavery by paying the required debt or could redeem a relative’s property by paying the value for the property.
Boaz was willing to purchase Elimelech’s property, but there was another relative who was more closely related who would get first right to purchase the property as a kinsmen-redeemer. The man was willing to purchase property, but was not willing to take Ruth as his wife.
Boaz was willing to take Ruth as his wife as well as buy the land that belonged to Elimelech. God blessed them with a son. And, later, their great-grandson was Israel’s great King David!
Naomi was blessed not only because the family’s name would not die, but because her daughter-in-law was well cared for and she received a grandson! Her family was truly redeemed.
But again, is there a bigger picture?
1. How would the relationship between the Israelites and their despised enemies, the Moabites, change because of this new relationship?
2. Was God’s love available for people other than the Israelites?
3. How is it significant that Rahab and Ruth are in the family tree of King David and Jesus?
Interestingly enough, Ruth means “companion” and Boaz mean “strength”. Ruth was a companion to many. She had incredible character, unending devotion, and amazing humility. Boaz was a man of great strength – especially in character, honor, and obedience to God. Although hard times took Naomi and Ruth on a tough path, they were both richly blessed because of their faith in God.
Can you think of another kinsmen-redeemer?
Jesus became our kinsmen-redeemer. He became our kinsmen by becoming human which made it possible for Him to redeem us. We were slaves to sin, and He paid our debt to redeem us and set us free. (Hebrews 2:14-17) Unfortunately, our debt was very high – it was death. What an incredible act of love. We have been redeemed – and we are truly BLESSED!!
Monday, February 16, 2009
February 16...
Ruth 1; Leviticus 19:9-10; and Ruth 2
You could actually skip the Leviticus reading, but, it's only two verses and it will make sense as you read the story. So, go for it...
Coincidences? Or God’s plan? Famine. Early deaths. Spies protecting a foreign prostitute. I know that one is not from today’s reading (it is all the way back in Joshua 2), but it is all connected!
Matthew chapter 1 gives the genealogy (or family tree) of Jesus. There are three women mention by name. One is obviously Mary. The other two?
First, “Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab.” Really! One of the women listed in Jesus’ family tree is Boaz’s mom, Rahab – the prostitute that was saved in Jericho. God went out of His way to bring Rahab into Jesus’ family tree. Rahab is a great example of a person who through faith became a completely new person.
Second, “Boaz was the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth.” A lot of things had to happen for Ruth to end up in this family tree…
A famine strikes and Elimelech leaves the Promised Land with his family to go to Moab – the land of those who are physically related to God, but don’t have a spiritual relationship with Him. Elimelech dies and his wife Naomi is left with 2 sons who marry Moabite women. ENTER RUTH. Now Ruth is not yet in Jesus’ family tree – still much has to happen.
Both of Naomi’s sons die early and leave Naomi with two Moabite daughters-in-law. You know the story – Ruth returns home with Naomi and adopts her culture and her god.
Next, Boaz enters in to the picture. We know he is a kind and generous man who is obedient to God because in a time of disobedience, Boaz is still honoring a the command from Leviticus 19:9-10 to leave some of the harvest for the poor. And because he is obedient to God, he meets Ruth.
The stage is set for Ruth to be placed in the line of King David and Jesus … we will read more tomorrow.
But for today – think about it:
Why did God work so hard to bring two non-Israelite women into Jesus’ heritage?
Naomi said that the Almighty had brought her misfortune? Do you believe this statement is true?
Was it all about Naomi? Or was there a bigger picture that included the salvation of many others including some outside of the Israelites?
Today, when things go wrong, do you believe God is punishing you? Is He? Is it all about you – or could there be a bigger picture for the salvation of many others including some who don’t know Jesus yet.
on a social level - think about it:
what is God's idea for social security?
who is supposed to take care of the poor?
who is supposed to take care of the old mother in law?
what was God thinking? how will these poor and old people be take care of?
government program?
families?
could that work today? why don't we do it?
You could actually skip the Leviticus reading, but, it's only two verses and it will make sense as you read the story. So, go for it...
Coincidences? Or God’s plan? Famine. Early deaths. Spies protecting a foreign prostitute. I know that one is not from today’s reading (it is all the way back in Joshua 2), but it is all connected!
Matthew chapter 1 gives the genealogy (or family tree) of Jesus. There are three women mention by name. One is obviously Mary. The other two?
First, “Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab.” Really! One of the women listed in Jesus’ family tree is Boaz’s mom, Rahab – the prostitute that was saved in Jericho. God went out of His way to bring Rahab into Jesus’ family tree. Rahab is a great example of a person who through faith became a completely new person.
Second, “Boaz was the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth.” A lot of things had to happen for Ruth to end up in this family tree…
A famine strikes and Elimelech leaves the Promised Land with his family to go to Moab – the land of those who are physically related to God, but don’t have a spiritual relationship with Him. Elimelech dies and his wife Naomi is left with 2 sons who marry Moabite women. ENTER RUTH. Now Ruth is not yet in Jesus’ family tree – still much has to happen.
Both of Naomi’s sons die early and leave Naomi with two Moabite daughters-in-law. You know the story – Ruth returns home with Naomi and adopts her culture and her god.
Next, Boaz enters in to the picture. We know he is a kind and generous man who is obedient to God because in a time of disobedience, Boaz is still honoring a the command from Leviticus 19:9-10 to leave some of the harvest for the poor. And because he is obedient to God, he meets Ruth.
The stage is set for Ruth to be placed in the line of King David and Jesus … we will read more tomorrow.
But for today – think about it:
Why did God work so hard to bring two non-Israelite women into Jesus’ heritage?
Naomi said that the Almighty had brought her misfortune? Do you believe this statement is true?
Was it all about Naomi? Or was there a bigger picture that included the salvation of many others including some outside of the Israelites?
Today, when things go wrong, do you believe God is punishing you? Is He? Is it all about you – or could there be a bigger picture for the salvation of many others including some who don’t know Jesus yet.
on a social level - think about it:
what is God's idea for social security?
who is supposed to take care of the poor?
who is supposed to take care of the old mother in law?
what was God thinking? how will these poor and old people be take care of?
government program?
families?
could that work today? why don't we do it?
Sunday, February 15, 2009
February 15...
Judges 6-8
The cycle of sin continues to repeat, but this time something is different. It starts out the same … “Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD …” The middle is the same … they are defeated and oppressed. But this time the delivery is different. Up until this time when Israel has cried out to the LORD, He has raised up a judge to deliver them. This time He sends them a prophet.
The prophet comes to point out why they are in the mess they are in – they have not listed to God!
God selects Gideon (which means “he that bruises or breaks” and “the destroyer”) as the leader, but Gideon point out that he is the weakest of the weakest (“one who bruises or breaks”). And God says, “Perfect! That is what I was looking for!” Okay, maybe not. God calls him a “mighty warrior” (“the destroyer”). What Gideon doesn’t realize is that even the weakest person combined with God is MIGHTY!
So enter in with us to the battle room (the presence of God) where some of the strangest war plans ever seen have been made … including circumcision, marching in circles, and blowing trumpets. Gideon assesses his troops. He has 32,000 men to fight against Midian’s 135,000! No problem (ha) – each Israelite will have to take care of 4 Midianites. Okay, let’s go.
Not so fast – God says, “You have too many men ….” What? God is making weak Israel even weaker! Why? So they cannot possibly claim the victory as their own. Next, 22,000 men walk away and Gideon is left with 10,000. And God says, “Still too many!” Finally, Gideon prepares for battle with 300 men – they are outnumbered 450 to 1.
The weapons – an empty jar, a torch, and a trumpet. Really! No human could claim this victory – but God gave them victory over Midian. Cool story, but what does it mean for us today?
Midian means “strife” or “difficult times”. And we will have strife in our lives – especially if we don’t listen to God. But how can we use clay jars, torches, and trumpets to defeat strife today?
In 2 Corinthians 4:5-10, we find out that we are the fragile clay jars, and when we are weak (cracked) the torch is seen. Jesus is the light of the torch in us (the jar). So Jesus, who is in us, is seen through our weaknesses. And the trumpet? It is your testimony of God’s greatness! Remember in the battle, it was when the trumpets were blown that the LORD brought victory over Midian (strife). BLOW the trumpet!! NO – don’t toot your own horn and bring attention to yourself. Blow the trumpet of God. The Apostle Paul said, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus as LORD.” Think about it: God knew He would deliver the Israelites, but He wanted them to see that the mess they were in was because of a cycle of sin caused by not listening to God. It is the same for us. Is your life a mess because you are not listening to Him? For the Israelites, it started with God not being number one in their lives anymore then it progressed to where He was not even a part of their lives at all. Where is God in your life? Have you ever felt like Gideon – like you didn’t have anything to offer?
Remember your strength does not come from you – it comes from joining with God! Do you blow God’s trumpet or your own?
Does the fact that you are God's child help you make it through the day or the thought that you are prettier, more muscular, cooler, smarter, your folks have more money, or you made the team/squad?
The cycle of sin continues to repeat, but this time something is different. It starts out the same … “Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD …” The middle is the same … they are defeated and oppressed. But this time the delivery is different. Up until this time when Israel has cried out to the LORD, He has raised up a judge to deliver them. This time He sends them a prophet.
The prophet comes to point out why they are in the mess they are in – they have not listed to God!
God selects Gideon (which means “he that bruises or breaks” and “the destroyer”) as the leader, but Gideon point out that he is the weakest of the weakest (“one who bruises or breaks”). And God says, “Perfect! That is what I was looking for!” Okay, maybe not. God calls him a “mighty warrior” (“the destroyer”). What Gideon doesn’t realize is that even the weakest person combined with God is MIGHTY!
So enter in with us to the battle room (the presence of God) where some of the strangest war plans ever seen have been made … including circumcision, marching in circles, and blowing trumpets. Gideon assesses his troops. He has 32,000 men to fight against Midian’s 135,000! No problem (ha) – each Israelite will have to take care of 4 Midianites. Okay, let’s go.
Not so fast – God says, “You have too many men ….” What? God is making weak Israel even weaker! Why? So they cannot possibly claim the victory as their own. Next, 22,000 men walk away and Gideon is left with 10,000. And God says, “Still too many!” Finally, Gideon prepares for battle with 300 men – they are outnumbered 450 to 1.
The weapons – an empty jar, a torch, and a trumpet. Really! No human could claim this victory – but God gave them victory over Midian. Cool story, but what does it mean for us today?
Midian means “strife” or “difficult times”. And we will have strife in our lives – especially if we don’t listen to God. But how can we use clay jars, torches, and trumpets to defeat strife today?
In 2 Corinthians 4:5-10, we find out that we are the fragile clay jars, and when we are weak (cracked) the torch is seen. Jesus is the light of the torch in us (the jar). So Jesus, who is in us, is seen through our weaknesses. And the trumpet? It is your testimony of God’s greatness! Remember in the battle, it was when the trumpets were blown that the LORD brought victory over Midian (strife). BLOW the trumpet!! NO – don’t toot your own horn and bring attention to yourself. Blow the trumpet of God. The Apostle Paul said, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus as LORD.” Think about it: God knew He would deliver the Israelites, but He wanted them to see that the mess they were in was because of a cycle of sin caused by not listening to God. It is the same for us. Is your life a mess because you are not listening to Him? For the Israelites, it started with God not being number one in their lives anymore then it progressed to where He was not even a part of their lives at all. Where is God in your life? Have you ever felt like Gideon – like you didn’t have anything to offer?
Remember your strength does not come from you – it comes from joining with God! Do you blow God’s trumpet or your own?
Does the fact that you are God's child help you make it through the day or the thought that you are prettier, more muscular, cooler, smarter, your folks have more money, or you made the team/squad?
Saturday, February 14, 2009
February 14...
Judges 4–5
Who Is Your Relationship With?
Yesterday we started reading about a rough time in Israel’s history. Unlike the time of Joshua when the Israelites remembered God, trusted Him, and obeyed Him … the time of the judges showed a very sad pattern.
1. Israel would forget God and fall into sin and idolatry
2. Israel would become enslaved
3. Israel would cry out to the LORD
4. God would raise up a judge/leader (not a court judge who dealt with legal issues, more like a military leader)
5. Israel would be delivered
6. Israel would experience peace and rest and would serve the LORD
7. THEN THE CYCLE WOULD REPEAT
After Ehud delivered the Israelites, there was 80 years of peace and rest.
Then in Judges 4:1 we see the phrase that is repeated throughout the book of judges: “The Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the LORD …” Over and over this cycle repeats itself.
Each time God would put a judge or leader in front of His people and this person would remind them of His ways, but when the leader died, the people would wander off again to their old ways. The problem? The Israelites never developed a personal relationship with the LORD. Instead they relied on others to be their go-between with God.
Our relationship with God can’t be a relationship with a spiritual leader.
Deborah came on the scene and rescued the Israelites – just as Othniel (3:7-11), Ehud (3:12-30), and Shamgar (3:31) had. But she was one more on a list of judges/leaders who delivered Israel, but did not result in a lasting change in the hearts of the people. It was not the fault of the leader. It was the fault of the people.
Think of the people who have impacted you spiritually. Think of the people who have reminded you of God’s ways and challenged you to obey Him. These people have been brought to you by God. They are trying to bring you to a personal relationship with God. If these people suddenly die or are removed from your life, don’t repeat the cycle of sin we see in Judges. Lean on God. Remember all He has done for you. Thank Him for blessing your life with such special leaders. And receive rest and peace – and serve your LORD.
Who is your relationship with? Your leader or your LORD?
Acts 4:12 “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Who Is Your Relationship With?
Yesterday we started reading about a rough time in Israel’s history. Unlike the time of Joshua when the Israelites remembered God, trusted Him, and obeyed Him … the time of the judges showed a very sad pattern.
1. Israel would forget God and fall into sin and idolatry
2. Israel would become enslaved
3. Israel would cry out to the LORD
4. God would raise up a judge/leader (not a court judge who dealt with legal issues, more like a military leader)
5. Israel would be delivered
6. Israel would experience peace and rest and would serve the LORD
7. THEN THE CYCLE WOULD REPEAT
After Ehud delivered the Israelites, there was 80 years of peace and rest.
Then in Judges 4:1 we see the phrase that is repeated throughout the book of judges: “The Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the LORD …” Over and over this cycle repeats itself.
Each time God would put a judge or leader in front of His people and this person would remind them of His ways, but when the leader died, the people would wander off again to their old ways. The problem? The Israelites never developed a personal relationship with the LORD. Instead they relied on others to be their go-between with God.
Our relationship with God can’t be a relationship with a spiritual leader.
Deborah came on the scene and rescued the Israelites – just as Othniel (3:7-11), Ehud (3:12-30), and Shamgar (3:31) had. But she was one more on a list of judges/leaders who delivered Israel, but did not result in a lasting change in the hearts of the people. It was not the fault of the leader. It was the fault of the people.
Think of the people who have impacted you spiritually. Think of the people who have reminded you of God’s ways and challenged you to obey Him. These people have been brought to you by God. They are trying to bring you to a personal relationship with God. If these people suddenly die or are removed from your life, don’t repeat the cycle of sin we see in Judges. Lean on God. Remember all He has done for you. Thank Him for blessing your life with such special leaders. And receive rest and peace – and serve your LORD.
Who is your relationship with? Your leader or your LORD?
Acts 4:12 “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Friday, February 13, 2009
February 13...
Judges 1-3
The Cycle of Sin
“Once again”. It seems to be repeated over and over in this story of the Israelites. Despite Moses and Joshua’s final words: TO REMEMBER and TO OBEY, the Israelites FORGET and DISOBEYED – and as a result they found themselves without God’s favor. And the cycle of sin continues.
It seems that we miss so much of God’s story because we don’t understand the cultural importance of a name. Often times I have thought … if these guys were just named Bob and Bill this would all be so much easier to remember. But so much of the story is in the meaning of a name. Take chapter 3 of Judges.
The King of Moab is named Eglon. Do you remember back in Genesis 19 when Lot had an inappropriate relationship with his daughter? Well it resulted in the birth of Moab and the Moabites were descendants of Moab. So here we have a nation who is physically related to the Israelites, but has no true relationship with them. This could easily describe many Christians today – those who attend church and call themselves “Christians”, but don’t have a true relationship with Him. Satan has done a great job of dulling our spiritual walk to where all we do is go through the motions – and we never grow spiritually. Eglon means “circle”. Amazingly, Eglon is the perfect symbol for those who do not have a true relationship with Jesus and simply go through the motions – over and over again – never going anywhere.
Then there is Ehud. Ehud is left-handed and carries a double-edged sword. He is the deliverer sent from God. And his name? It means “I will give praise”. Ehud’s dad (stick with me) was named Gera which means to “chew the cud”. I know – SICK! But in Bible language, chewing the cud symbolizes meditation. Seriously – like going over and over the same thought to get everything out of it you can.
So now, let’s look at this story knowing the meaning of the names of the characters. The cycle of sin repeats. We see a very “large” problem – people who call themselves “Christians” but don’t have a true relationship with God. But God provides a way to be delivered and to kill the cycle of sin. Meditation upon God’s Word brings about (or in this story actually gives birth to) praise. And the people are delivered from the cycle of shallow Christianity.
Wow! What a challenge. The way we defeat the enemy (Satan) and stop the cycle of sin is to (1) meditate on God’s Word, (2) give Him praise, and (3) be delivered from shallow Christianity and enter into a true relationship with Him.
Today's lesson has been an adaptation from : http://www.jesusplusnothing.com/studies/online/judges6.htm Check out this website for some more great Bible study resources
Check out these scriptures:
Joshua 1:8 “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Hebrews 13:15 “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess His name.”
Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit.”
Ephesians 6:17 “Take the … sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
This song might be a little old school and slow... but, the ancient words are what we're reading right now. They bring us hope, faith, wisdom, questions, and knowledge of a life of Salvation.
Really? Could you really sing this from your heart?
The Cycle of Sin
“Once again”. It seems to be repeated over and over in this story of the Israelites. Despite Moses and Joshua’s final words: TO REMEMBER and TO OBEY, the Israelites FORGET and DISOBEYED – and as a result they found themselves without God’s favor. And the cycle of sin continues.
It seems that we miss so much of God’s story because we don’t understand the cultural importance of a name. Often times I have thought … if these guys were just named Bob and Bill this would all be so much easier to remember. But so much of the story is in the meaning of a name. Take chapter 3 of Judges.
The King of Moab is named Eglon. Do you remember back in Genesis 19 when Lot had an inappropriate relationship with his daughter? Well it resulted in the birth of Moab and the Moabites were descendants of Moab. So here we have a nation who is physically related to the Israelites, but has no true relationship with them. This could easily describe many Christians today – those who attend church and call themselves “Christians”, but don’t have a true relationship with Him. Satan has done a great job of dulling our spiritual walk to where all we do is go through the motions – and we never grow spiritually. Eglon means “circle”. Amazingly, Eglon is the perfect symbol for those who do not have a true relationship with Jesus and simply go through the motions – over and over again – never going anywhere.
Then there is Ehud. Ehud is left-handed and carries a double-edged sword. He is the deliverer sent from God. And his name? It means “I will give praise”. Ehud’s dad (stick with me) was named Gera which means to “chew the cud”. I know – SICK! But in Bible language, chewing the cud symbolizes meditation. Seriously – like going over and over the same thought to get everything out of it you can.
So now, let’s look at this story knowing the meaning of the names of the characters. The cycle of sin repeats. We see a very “large” problem – people who call themselves “Christians” but don’t have a true relationship with God. But God provides a way to be delivered and to kill the cycle of sin. Meditation upon God’s Word brings about (or in this story actually gives birth to) praise. And the people are delivered from the cycle of shallow Christianity.
Wow! What a challenge. The way we defeat the enemy (Satan) and stop the cycle of sin is to (1) meditate on God’s Word, (2) give Him praise, and (3) be delivered from shallow Christianity and enter into a true relationship with Him.
Today's lesson has been an adaptation from : http://www.jesusplusnothing.com/studies/online/judges6.htm Check out this website for some more great Bible study resources
Check out these scriptures:
Joshua 1:8 “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Hebrews 13:15 “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess His name.”
Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit.”
Ephesians 6:17 “Take the … sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
This song might be a little old school and slow... but, the ancient words are what we're reading right now. They bring us hope, faith, wisdom, questions, and knowledge of a life of Salvation.
Ancient Words, ever true
changing me, changing you
we have come with open hearts
oh, let the ancient Words impart...
Really? Could you really sing this from your heart?
Thursday, February 12, 2009
February 12...
Joshua 13-22 describes the division of the Promised Land among the tribes. It basically is a “who got what” documentation of land inheritance. This map from Bible-History.com sums it up pretty well.
http://www.bible-history.com/geography/maps/map_canaan_tribal_portions.html
Read Joshua 23-24
It seems that Joshua has barely gotten the people in the land, and he realizes that his job is almost done. He is old and pulls the leaders and the tribes together for his last words. And it sounds very similar to Moses’ last words:
REMEMBER all that the LORD has done for you
BE STRONG
OBEY HIM
DO NOT SERVE OTHER GODS
Two verses seem to sum up Joshua’s message to the people. First a warning and then a challenge – and they are both verse 15 – verse 15 in chapter 23 and verse 15 in chapter 24.
Joshua 23:14-15 “You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled, not one has failed. But just as every good promise of the LORD your God has come true, so the LORD will bring on you all the evil he has threatened, until he has destroyed you from this good land he has given you.”
Joshua 24:14-15 “Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Think about it:
Do you believe that all of God’s promises will come true?
Do you believe that there are real consequences to disobeying Him?
Who will you serve?
Does your life demonstrate your answer about who you serve?
http://www.bible-history.com/geography/maps/map_canaan_tribal_portions.html
Read Joshua 23-24
It seems that Joshua has barely gotten the people in the land, and he realizes that his job is almost done. He is old and pulls the leaders and the tribes together for his last words. And it sounds very similar to Moses’ last words:
REMEMBER all that the LORD has done for you
BE STRONG
OBEY HIM
DO NOT SERVE OTHER GODS
Two verses seem to sum up Joshua’s message to the people. First a warning and then a challenge – and they are both verse 15 – verse 15 in chapter 23 and verse 15 in chapter 24.
Joshua 23:14-15 “You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled, not one has failed. But just as every good promise of the LORD your God has come true, so the LORD will bring on you all the evil he has threatened, until he has destroyed you from this good land he has given you.”
Joshua 24:14-15 “Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Think about it:
Do you believe that all of God’s promises will come true?
Do you believe that there are real consequences to disobeying Him?
Who will you serve?
Does your life demonstrate your answer about who you serve?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
February 11...
Joshua 5:13-Joshua 10
The Battle Belongs to the LORD
Joshua was given the battle plan for the siege of Jericho by a messenger of God. The plan did not sound like it would work, but Joshua had learned that he had to trust God. He had learned that the battle was not his – the battle belonged to the LORD.
Trust and obey. The theme has repeated itself over and over throughout our readings in the Old Testament. After Jericho was destroyed, Joshua delivered a curse that Jericho was never to be rebuilt. Anyone who tried would pay dearly with his firstborn son and his youngest son. Why would it be a problem for someone to try to rebuild a city in this perfect spot along the trade route? [By the way, a guy by the name of Hiel tried to rebuild Jericho – and it didn’t go so well. See I Kings 16:34]
God had always required Israel to give their first fruits from their harvest which showed that they recognized God as their provider and that they trusted Him to take care of them. As they entered the Promised Land, Jericho was their first victory. All that was in Jericho – gold, silver, and bronze – was to be given to God as a first fruits offering as He commanded. There would be more victories and more gold, silver, and bronze – they just had to trust Him – and obey.
An intriguing storing is when the sun stood still... wow, that doesn't make sense! There was not enough time for that battle. The sun doesn't stand still.
What about gravity? Could it be that nothing is impossible for God? Could it be that when timing just isn't right in your life, that God can still make things right... if it's for His Honor and Glory?
When you go begging God for help... is it for your glory or His Glory? Is it to make Him more famous, or it is to make your life easier?
Think about it:
Are you, as a Christian, called into battle today? If so, how?
How do you confront evil in your world?
Do you remember that the battle is the LORD’s and wait for His direction or do you claim the battle as your own and try to do things your way?
Do you recognize that God is your provider or do you put faith in yourself to provide?
Do you give God your first fruits of your time, talents, money, etc. – or do you give Him your leftovers?
Do you depend on God to get you through, even if it doesn't make sense?
Where are you in your faith with God when a tough battle comes along? All in? Still waiting to decide? Somewhere in the middle?
The Battle Belongs to the LORD
Joshua was given the battle plan for the siege of Jericho by a messenger of God. The plan did not sound like it would work, but Joshua had learned that he had to trust God. He had learned that the battle was not his – the battle belonged to the LORD.
Trust and obey. The theme has repeated itself over and over throughout our readings in the Old Testament. After Jericho was destroyed, Joshua delivered a curse that Jericho was never to be rebuilt. Anyone who tried would pay dearly with his firstborn son and his youngest son. Why would it be a problem for someone to try to rebuild a city in this perfect spot along the trade route? [By the way, a guy by the name of Hiel tried to rebuild Jericho – and it didn’t go so well. See I Kings 16:34]
God had always required Israel to give their first fruits from their harvest which showed that they recognized God as their provider and that they trusted Him to take care of them. As they entered the Promised Land, Jericho was their first victory. All that was in Jericho – gold, silver, and bronze – was to be given to God as a first fruits offering as He commanded. There would be more victories and more gold, silver, and bronze – they just had to trust Him – and obey.
An intriguing storing is when the sun stood still... wow, that doesn't make sense! There was not enough time for that battle. The sun doesn't stand still.
What about gravity? Could it be that nothing is impossible for God? Could it be that when timing just isn't right in your life, that God can still make things right... if it's for His Honor and Glory?
When you go begging God for help... is it for your glory or His Glory? Is it to make Him more famous, or it is to make your life easier?
Think about it:
Are you, as a Christian, called into battle today? If so, how?
How do you confront evil in your world?
Do you remember that the battle is the LORD’s and wait for His direction or do you claim the battle as your own and try to do things your way?
Do you recognize that God is your provider or do you put faith in yourself to provide?
Do you give God your first fruits of your time, talents, money, etc. – or do you give Him your leftovers?
Do you depend on God to get you through, even if it doesn't make sense?
Where are you in your faith with God when a tough battle comes along? All in? Still waiting to decide? Somewhere in the middle?
Monday, February 9, 2009
February 10...
Joshua 1-5
On the surface they seemed to be the same, but on the inside, everything had changed. They had decided to trust God, no matter what. They had decided to obey Him, even if it didn’t make any sense. They reestablished their covenant with Him through circumcision – not something that makes a lot of sense before you are going into battle!
We don’t hear grumbling or see rebellion. Instead, we see a group of people who are following Moses’ final words – they are remembering the LORD and what He has done for them. They are trusting Him and obeying Him. And, they are keeping the story alive.
In chapter 4, Joshua told the men to get 12 stones and he set them up. This was an ancient custom called “massebah” which is translated “standing stones” and means “to set up”. The standing stones served as a reminder of something very special that God had done. The story of the stones would be passed down from generation to generation.
Jacob set up stone pillars to remember the place of his powerful dream. Moses set up stones at the foot of Mount Sinai after he received the Ten Commandments. And Joshua set up these 12 stones to remember the miracle of crossing the Jordan at flood stage – on dry ground!
Throughout history there have been standing stones that have been discovered, but there are no living witnesses to tell the story of what happened there. The story is lost. As amazing as the structures of the standing stones may be, they are meaningless without the story behind them.
In I Peter 2:5, Peter talks about stones and calls followers of Christ “living stones”.
What if we thought of ourselves as “living” standing stones? What if we were “set up” as a reminder of something special God has done?
What if we lived our lives in such a way that it caught the attention of others and they asked “why” – and the story of God and Jesus was told?
What if our lives became meaningless because there was no story behind them?
Think about it.
What if to be that living stone... we have to become strong and courageous?
What if the reason we have to be strong and courageous is because it is frightening?
What if the story of God's power in our lives could give us courage bigger than anything that could frighten us?
What if God's plan was going to require you to be courageous?
What if courage means doing something you wouldn't do naturally - out of self preservation?
What if the strength courage to live out God's story of justice and mercy for the world around you could only come from you admitting you aren't strong enough and that you are scared?
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
On the surface they seemed to be the same, but on the inside, everything had changed. They had decided to trust God, no matter what. They had decided to obey Him, even if it didn’t make any sense. They reestablished their covenant with Him through circumcision – not something that makes a lot of sense before you are going into battle!
We don’t hear grumbling or see rebellion. Instead, we see a group of people who are following Moses’ final words – they are remembering the LORD and what He has done for them. They are trusting Him and obeying Him. And, they are keeping the story alive.
In chapter 4, Joshua told the men to get 12 stones and he set them up. This was an ancient custom called “massebah” which is translated “standing stones” and means “to set up”. The standing stones served as a reminder of something very special that God had done. The story of the stones would be passed down from generation to generation.
Jacob set up stone pillars to remember the place of his powerful dream. Moses set up stones at the foot of Mount Sinai after he received the Ten Commandments. And Joshua set up these 12 stones to remember the miracle of crossing the Jordan at flood stage – on dry ground!
Throughout history there have been standing stones that have been discovered, but there are no living witnesses to tell the story of what happened there. The story is lost. As amazing as the structures of the standing stones may be, they are meaningless without the story behind them.
In I Peter 2:5, Peter talks about stones and calls followers of Christ “living stones”.
What if we thought of ourselves as “living” standing stones? What if we were “set up” as a reminder of something special God has done?
What if we lived our lives in such a way that it caught the attention of others and they asked “why” – and the story of God and Jesus was told?
What if our lives became meaningless because there was no story behind them?
Think about it.
What if to be that living stone... we have to become strong and courageous?
What if the reason we have to be strong and courageous is because it is frightening?
What if the story of God's power in our lives could give us courage bigger than anything that could frighten us?
What if God's plan was going to require you to be courageous?
What if courage means doing something you wouldn't do naturally - out of self preservation?
What if the strength courage to live out God's story of justice and mercy for the world around you could only come from you admitting you aren't strong enough and that you are scared?
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
February 9...
Deuteronomy 6, 8, 30:11-31:8, and 34
Famous Last Words
If you knew you were about to die, what would you say to the ones that you love? It seems that so much of what we talk about each day and the things that we stress about would not be nearly as important if it was our last day to live.
After 120 years, Moses was about to die. He knew he was about to die and that this was his last chance to talk to the Israelites. What did he say?
Love the LORD your God with all that you have. Love Him more than anything else. Obey Him. Do not forget Him. Do not forget all that He has done for you. He has given you a choice between life and death – choose wisely. Don’t be afraid, He will never leave you. Keep the story alive.
Moses officially transferred the leadership to Joshua, blessed the tribes, and went up the mountain. There he saw the Promised Land. I can’t help but wonder if he had regret. All those years, wandering in the desert, leading the people, begging God to forgive the people – and, now, he was only allowed to see it from the mountain top. And, there he died.
Moses summed it up. He reminded them of what was important – and these things still apply to us today. We are much like the Israelites – we get distracted easily and forget quickly. Be reminded today of what is important.
We don’t have the luxury of knowing when we will die. The only thing that we can do is live each day like it is our last. What do you need to tell those that you love? Don’t let the sun go down without communicating what is in your heart.
think about it...
what are families in charge of doing with their children?
what is the choice laid out before God's people? does this remind you of romans 6:23, or is that verse in romans just paul's retelling the story of God that has always been?
after all that they have been through, being delivered from egypt, being saved in the desert, and about to cross over into the promise land... how could they keep from telling the story that echoes through out history? how could they keep from singing God's praise?
Famous Last Words
If you knew you were about to die, what would you say to the ones that you love? It seems that so much of what we talk about each day and the things that we stress about would not be nearly as important if it was our last day to live.
After 120 years, Moses was about to die. He knew he was about to die and that this was his last chance to talk to the Israelites. What did he say?
Love the LORD your God with all that you have. Love Him more than anything else. Obey Him. Do not forget Him. Do not forget all that He has done for you. He has given you a choice between life and death – choose wisely. Don’t be afraid, He will never leave you. Keep the story alive.
Moses officially transferred the leadership to Joshua, blessed the tribes, and went up the mountain. There he saw the Promised Land. I can’t help but wonder if he had regret. All those years, wandering in the desert, leading the people, begging God to forgive the people – and, now, he was only allowed to see it from the mountain top. And, there he died.
Moses summed it up. He reminded them of what was important – and these things still apply to us today. We are much like the Israelites – we get distracted easily and forget quickly. Be reminded today of what is important.
We don’t have the luxury of knowing when we will die. The only thing that we can do is live each day like it is our last. What do you need to tell those that you love? Don’t let the sun go down without communicating what is in your heart.
think about it...
what are families in charge of doing with their children?
what is the choice laid out before God's people? does this remind you of romans 6:23, or is that verse in romans just paul's retelling the story of God that has always been?
after all that they have been through, being delivered from egypt, being saved in the desert, and about to cross over into the promise land... how could they keep from telling the story that echoes through out history? how could they keep from singing God's praise?
Saturday, February 7, 2009
February 8...
Numbers 30-34
Cleaning Up The Mess and Moving Forward
The LORD takes oaths or promises very seriously. Read what Jesus has to say about our promises and our words in Matthew 5:33-37. Truth is important. We are to mean what we say and follow through with what we say. We are to be people who are worthy of trust. Does your “yes” mean “yes” – and does your “no” mean “no”? Do you honor other people’s words or do you think you know the real meaning behind their words? We are to take people words as truth. Granted, trust is earned, and people who do not speak truth are difficult to trust, but we have to find a way to get away from the fake world we live in. If you love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength -- speak the truth in a loving way, be real, and God will be honored and glorified.
The Midianites, along with Balaam, were punished for dishonoring God. Once again, God gave very specific orders and watched to see if the Israelites were ready to be obedient. It was almost as if it was the final test to see if this new generation was ready to go into the Promised Land.
Cleaning Up The Mess and Moving Forward
The LORD takes oaths or promises very seriously. Read what Jesus has to say about our promises and our words in Matthew 5:33-37. Truth is important. We are to mean what we say and follow through with what we say. We are to be people who are worthy of trust. Does your “yes” mean “yes” – and does your “no” mean “no”? Do you honor other people’s words or do you think you know the real meaning behind their words? We are to take people words as truth. Granted, trust is earned, and people who do not speak truth are difficult to trust, but we have to find a way to get away from the fake world we live in. If you love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength -- speak the truth in a loving way, be real, and God will be honored and glorified.
The Midianites, along with Balaam, were punished for dishonoring God. Once again, God gave very specific orders and watched to see if the Israelites were ready to be obedient. It was almost as if it was the final test to see if this new generation was ready to go into the Promised Land.
February 7...
Numbers 25 – 27 and Leviticus 23
Chapter 26 is full of names and lineages, and we can learn some things about the different clans if you have some extra time today...
How Easily We Forget
Balaam didn’t learn his lesson. He quickly forgot God’s will and devised a plan to try to force God to curse the Israelites. Numbers 31:16 tells us that Balaam advised Balak to send some beautiful Midianite women to seduce the Israelite men. When the Israelite men became involved with these women, the plan was that the men would begin worshiping their idols – which would make God mad – and, hopefully, God would curse the Israelites for punishment for such a sin.
Things were going as planned until Phineas (Aaron’s grandson) acted against this horrible sin and stood up for the honor of his God. Even though there were many men who died who had dishonored God, the nation of Israel was restored because Phineas stood up for God.
Just as Balaam seemed to quickly forget what God had done – so did the Israelites – REPEATEDLY!! God set up seven feasts that would be celebrated throughout the year to help the Israelites remember what He had done for them and to help them keep the story alive from generation to generation. The feasts are also connected to Jesus.
Check out Ray Vander Laan’s website and read about each feast to discover what it was to remind the Israelites of and how it is connected to Jesus.
www.followtherabbi.com then type in the words "jewish feasts" and select "that the world may know".
Think about it:
What do we do to make sure that we remember what God has done for us?
How do we keep the message of Jesus alive?
Further Study: It is interesting to see how the numbers of men in each tribe changed while they were wandering in the desert. The land inheritance was divided based on the size of the group. Compare the numbers with the first census in Numbers 1. The tribes of Judah and Dan remained the two largest tribes, thus getting the most land inheritance. The tribe of Simeon dropped from being the third largest to the smallest tribe and lost much of their inheritance.
What do you think affected the size of these tribes over the years?
Can we learn anything from this?
Chapter 26 is full of names and lineages, and we can learn some things about the different clans if you have some extra time today...
How Easily We Forget
Balaam didn’t learn his lesson. He quickly forgot God’s will and devised a plan to try to force God to curse the Israelites. Numbers 31:16 tells us that Balaam advised Balak to send some beautiful Midianite women to seduce the Israelite men. When the Israelite men became involved with these women, the plan was that the men would begin worshiping their idols – which would make God mad – and, hopefully, God would curse the Israelites for punishment for such a sin.
Things were going as planned until Phineas (Aaron’s grandson) acted against this horrible sin and stood up for the honor of his God. Even though there were many men who died who had dishonored God, the nation of Israel was restored because Phineas stood up for God.
Just as Balaam seemed to quickly forget what God had done – so did the Israelites – REPEATEDLY!! God set up seven feasts that would be celebrated throughout the year to help the Israelites remember what He had done for them and to help them keep the story alive from generation to generation. The feasts are also connected to Jesus.
Check out Ray Vander Laan’s website and read about each feast to discover what it was to remind the Israelites of and how it is connected to Jesus.
www.followtherabbi.com then type in the words "jewish feasts" and select "that the world may know".
Think about it:
What do we do to make sure that we remember what God has done for us?
How do we keep the message of Jesus alive?
Further Study: It is interesting to see how the numbers of men in each tribe changed while they were wandering in the desert. The land inheritance was divided based on the size of the group. Compare the numbers with the first census in Numbers 1. The tribes of Judah and Dan remained the two largest tribes, thus getting the most land inheritance. The tribe of Simeon dropped from being the third largest to the smallest tribe and lost much of their inheritance.
What do you think affected the size of these tribes over the years?
Can we learn anything from this?
Friday, February 6, 2009
February 6...
Numbers 22–24
A Prophet’s Profit
THIS IS THE FUNNIEST STORY IN THE BIBLE... i've actually laughed out loud reading it. can you imagine the donkey turning it's head after being beaten and asking "what's up man... what did i do? please stop!" hilarious... here's a, well, amateur depiction of the story...
Balaam was not one of God’s chosen people. Although he recognized that God was a powerful god, he did not believe that the LORD was the only true god. Balaam mixed a belief in God with a belief in sorcery (see Joshua 13:22).
Unfortunately, Balaam did not recognize the power of the One and only true God. He thought he could manipulate God’s will and financially profit at the same time. He was working both angles. He was trying to keep up the outward appearance of being a godly person, while letting corruption run wild inside. He was ready to obey God as long as he could profit from it. A mixture of motives is a scary thing. His head wanted to serve God, but his heart was dedicated to money.
Eventually the game will come to an end. We can pretend to be godly, but eventually who we really are will come to the surface. Instead of spending lots of effort trying to keep up the false appearances, we would better spend our time focusing on God, accepting His forgiveness, and allowing Him to make us new from within. Jesus addressed this with the Pharisees over and over again in the New Testament.
Even though it seems in these chapters that Balaam became bolder and bolder as a prophet for God – he missed out on the transformation from within. Read 2 Peter 2:15, Jude 11, Revelation 2:14.
The entire Bible is trying to get the point across to us that it is a heart issue, and the example of Balaam shows us that motives are just as important as actions.
Think about it...
Do you try to mix your “religion” – a little bit of this Christian stuff mixed with other worldly “religions”? You know, mix in some "God loves me" (true), with "i can do anything that makes me happy, because that's what God would want if he loves me" (totally not true).
Do you spend a lot of time keeping up your Christian image? Do you worry about people discovering what you are really like on the inside?
Does God ever block your path today? If so, do you recognize it, or do you complain because of your horrible situation?
When you know God’s will, do you try to manipulate Him and change His mind? God please... if you love me, you'll let me do this, make this team, pass this test, get that girlfriend... heal me...
Balaam was motivated by greed. What motivates you to obey or disobey? Do you obey on your terms or on God’s terms?
Are you allowing God to change you from the inside out?
A Prophet’s Profit
THIS IS THE FUNNIEST STORY IN THE BIBLE... i've actually laughed out loud reading it. can you imagine the donkey turning it's head after being beaten and asking "what's up man... what did i do? please stop!" hilarious... here's a, well, amateur depiction of the story...
Balaam was not one of God’s chosen people. Although he recognized that God was a powerful god, he did not believe that the LORD was the only true god. Balaam mixed a belief in God with a belief in sorcery (see Joshua 13:22).
Unfortunately, Balaam did not recognize the power of the One and only true God. He thought he could manipulate God’s will and financially profit at the same time. He was working both angles. He was trying to keep up the outward appearance of being a godly person, while letting corruption run wild inside. He was ready to obey God as long as he could profit from it. A mixture of motives is a scary thing. His head wanted to serve God, but his heart was dedicated to money.
Eventually the game will come to an end. We can pretend to be godly, but eventually who we really are will come to the surface. Instead of spending lots of effort trying to keep up the false appearances, we would better spend our time focusing on God, accepting His forgiveness, and allowing Him to make us new from within. Jesus addressed this with the Pharisees over and over again in the New Testament.
Even though it seems in these chapters that Balaam became bolder and bolder as a prophet for God – he missed out on the transformation from within. Read 2 Peter 2:15, Jude 11, Revelation 2:14.
The entire Bible is trying to get the point across to us that it is a heart issue, and the example of Balaam shows us that motives are just as important as actions.
Think about it...
Do you try to mix your “religion” – a little bit of this Christian stuff mixed with other worldly “religions”? You know, mix in some "God loves me" (true), with "i can do anything that makes me happy, because that's what God would want if he loves me" (totally not true).
Do you spend a lot of time keeping up your Christian image? Do you worry about people discovering what you are really like on the inside?
Does God ever block your path today? If so, do you recognize it, or do you complain because of your horrible situation?
When you know God’s will, do you try to manipulate Him and change His mind? God please... if you love me, you'll let me do this, make this team, pass this test, get that girlfriend... heal me...
Balaam was motivated by greed. What motivates you to obey or disobey? Do you obey on your terms or on God’s terms?
Are you allowing God to change you from the inside out?
Thursday, February 5, 2009
February 5...
Numbers 18 tells you all about the duties of the levites... pretty interesting
Numbers 19-21 is the bulk of our reading for today
think about it...
what does chapter 19 tell us about God's regard for life?
why does God consider death an unclean thing?
when God breathed into man's nostrils in the garden, was his intention life or death?
could it be that death is such a reminder of the opposite of his plan that He declares people unclean for 7 days? i don't know, think about it...
He is the life giver, the creator, the source...
moses takes a short cut in chapter 20. what are the consequences?
was it worth it? was it fair?
i can see myself complaining if i was an israelite who had been told that i wouldn't get to see the promise land and that i would die in the desert, i guess i could identify with them in some ways. but the word "consequences" keeps coming back to haunt them. it's their lack of trust in God that has landed them in this spot.
speaking of consequences, do a quick google on the words edom and essau ... what is the relationship between those two words?
moses is having to pay the price for jacob from many generations ago.
do you see the symbolism of Jesus in chapter 21? check it out... pretty interesting.
sin started with the "serpent" and now here it is again, and looking up at what is raised up is the only salvation...
Numbers 19-21 is the bulk of our reading for today
think about it...
what does chapter 19 tell us about God's regard for life?
why does God consider death an unclean thing?
when God breathed into man's nostrils in the garden, was his intention life or death?
could it be that death is such a reminder of the opposite of his plan that He declares people unclean for 7 days? i don't know, think about it...
He is the life giver, the creator, the source...
moses takes a short cut in chapter 20. what are the consequences?
was it worth it? was it fair?
i can see myself complaining if i was an israelite who had been told that i wouldn't get to see the promise land and that i would die in the desert, i guess i could identify with them in some ways. but the word "consequences" keeps coming back to haunt them. it's their lack of trust in God that has landed them in this spot.
speaking of consequences, do a quick google on the words edom and essau ... what is the relationship between those two words?
moses is having to pay the price for jacob from many generations ago.
do you see the symbolism of Jesus in chapter 21? check it out... pretty interesting.
sin started with the "serpent" and now here it is again, and looking up at what is raised up is the only salvation...
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
February 4...
Numbers 16-17
think about it...
even when moses is being confronted or accused unjustly, he is humble. he falls face down. why does moses fall face down? isn't he THE MAN? didn't he lead them out of egypt?
what does moses' attitude and actions say about what he believes about his position of leadership and God's position leadership?
why do isrealite leaders continue to get jealous and covet the leadership position that moses is filling?
have you ever made you parents "snap"!? is that what it seems to be happening with God and the israelites?
i've heard people say that if they could just see one miracle or if they could just see God in action, then they'd believe. after reading this passage... did that work for the israelites? did they believe after they had witnessed God's power in action? why or why not?
how does God's discipline show his love towards his people?
when aaron stands between the sick and the people that were well... he stops the plague. are you willing to stand and say "no more", and stop the plague of bullying, gossip, lust, hate, & selfishness?
what kind of "plagues" are at your school because of people's unbelief?
aaron's staff bears fruit as a sign of his connection to God, and as a sign of leadership as a priest. God calls us a "priesthood of believers" and our lives should bare what kind of fruit?
so ... it's kind of the same God doing the same thing in some ways, huh? people that are connected to Him, bare fruit and are called to be leaders for Him. think about it... is your life baring fruit because of your connection with God?
think about it...
even when moses is being confronted or accused unjustly, he is humble. he falls face down. why does moses fall face down? isn't he THE MAN? didn't he lead them out of egypt?
what does moses' attitude and actions say about what he believes about his position of leadership and God's position leadership?
why do isrealite leaders continue to get jealous and covet the leadership position that moses is filling?
have you ever made you parents "snap"!? is that what it seems to be happening with God and the israelites?
i've heard people say that if they could just see one miracle or if they could just see God in action, then they'd believe. after reading this passage... did that work for the israelites? did they believe after they had witnessed God's power in action? why or why not?
how does God's discipline show his love towards his people?
when aaron stands between the sick and the people that were well... he stops the plague. are you willing to stand and say "no more", and stop the plague of bullying, gossip, lust, hate, & selfishness?
what kind of "plagues" are at your school because of people's unbelief?
aaron's staff bears fruit as a sign of his connection to God, and as a sign of leadership as a priest. God calls us a "priesthood of believers" and our lives should bare what kind of fruit?
so ... it's kind of the same God doing the same thing in some ways, huh? people that are connected to Him, bare fruit and are called to be leaders for Him. think about it... is your life baring fruit because of your connection with God?
February 3...
Numbers 12-14
think about it...
what if your sin was revealed to everyone, like miriam?
what if everyone knew, like your skin turned a certain color, your nose grew, or you got sick... how do you think the world would react to God and His ways? would that be too much to bare? would that be cruel? would the "mark" of being sinful then become "cool"?
how much of a realist are you?
do you think the 10 spies were just being realistic?
it's obvious that the isrealites could not defeat these giants... and we could also think that the 10 spies were good men, why else would they be leaders or called to serve for their tribe. they weren't against God, or God would have already judged them. they still we're missing the perspective that God could do anything. the perspective that God could do the impossible... that's called FAITH.
why do we doubt what God can do?
when we get on a rollercoaster, it's insane what that ride is about to do to you, and yet you will not get hurt. when it comes to God and our faith, if we do not see exactly how it's going to work out... it's hard for us to get on board with Him.
joshua and caleb knew they were in the minority... they knew what would happen if the people dissaproved of what they were saying! 14:10 says they wanted to kill them.
i wonder if any of the 10 thought that God maybe could help them out... but they didn't want to be in the minority, even if that made them right.
do you ever stand up, even if you'll be in the minority?
is it more important to you to be in the majority (the popular decision) or in the right (usually the minority)?
what is the fate of the people because of their unbelief?
what is the fate of the spies because of their lack of faith?
in exodus 33 we read about when moses saw God pass by... it's amazing that the people had already forgotten about this. they'd forgotten about God's rescue and providence. they forgot that moses said that he would not go forward if God didn't go with them... listen to this songs lyrics and how it describes moses' encounters with God.
think about it...
what if your sin was revealed to everyone, like miriam?
what if everyone knew, like your skin turned a certain color, your nose grew, or you got sick... how do you think the world would react to God and His ways? would that be too much to bare? would that be cruel? would the "mark" of being sinful then become "cool"?
how much of a realist are you?
do you think the 10 spies were just being realistic?
it's obvious that the isrealites could not defeat these giants... and we could also think that the 10 spies were good men, why else would they be leaders or called to serve for their tribe. they weren't against God, or God would have already judged them. they still we're missing the perspective that God could do anything. the perspective that God could do the impossible... that's called FAITH.
why do we doubt what God can do?
when we get on a rollercoaster, it's insane what that ride is about to do to you, and yet you will not get hurt. when it comes to God and our faith, if we do not see exactly how it's going to work out... it's hard for us to get on board with Him.
joshua and caleb knew they were in the minority... they knew what would happen if the people dissaproved of what they were saying! 14:10 says they wanted to kill them.
i wonder if any of the 10 thought that God maybe could help them out... but they didn't want to be in the minority, even if that made them right.
do you ever stand up, even if you'll be in the minority?
is it more important to you to be in the majority (the popular decision) or in the right (usually the minority)?
what is the fate of the people because of their unbelief?
what is the fate of the spies because of their lack of faith?
in exodus 33 we read about when moses saw God pass by... it's amazing that the people had already forgotten about this. they'd forgotten about God's rescue and providence. they forgot that moses said that he would not go forward if God didn't go with them... listen to this songs lyrics and how it describes moses' encounters with God.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
February 2...
Numbers 10-11
think about it...
have you ever given someone a gift and they still wanted something "better"?
have you ever been dumped because you weren't good enough, and yet the other person starts to date a looser?
it totally rips me when others are ungrateful... almost as if i want to take back any or all kindness that i'd ever shown them in the first place...
hmmm... i wonder if that's the way that God felt?
i wonder if that's the way God feels?
all the times that Jesus said "ah, you of little faith",... that wasn't a compliment. that was God again being incredulous at our unbelief...
i'm pretty thankful for grace now, how about you?
think about it...
have you ever given someone a gift and they still wanted something "better"?
have you ever been dumped because you weren't good enough, and yet the other person starts to date a looser?
it totally rips me when others are ungrateful... almost as if i want to take back any or all kindness that i'd ever shown them in the first place...
hmmm... i wonder if that's the way that God felt?
i wonder if that's the way God feels?
all the times that Jesus said "ah, you of little faith",... that wasn't a compliment. that was God again being incredulous at our unbelief...
i'm pretty thankful for grace now, how about you?
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