Deal With It

Deal With It

Exodus 21: ¹⁸ “If men contend with each other, and one strikes the other with a stone or with his fist, and he does not die but is confined to his bed, ¹⁹ if he rises again and walks about outside with his staff, then he who struck him shall be acquitted. He shall only pay for the loss of his time, and shall provide for him to be thoroughly healed.

 

²⁰ “And if a man beats his male or female servant with a rod, so that he dies under his hand, he shall surely be punished. ²¹ Notwithstanding, if he remains alive a day or two, he shall not be punished; for he is his property.

 

²² “If men fight, and hurt a woman with child, so that she gives birth prematurely, yet no harm follows, he shall surely be punished accordingly as the woman’s husband imposes on him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. ²³ But if any harm follows, then you shall give life for life, ²⁴ eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, ²⁵ burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.

 

²⁶ “If a man strikes the eye of his male or female servant, and destroys it, he shall let him go free for the sake of his eye. ²⁷ And if he knocks out the tooth of his male or female servant, he shall let him go free for the sake of his tooth.

 

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GOD continued to speak to Moses about violence.

 

My Observations:

• GOD once saw that the heart of humans was corrupt and filled with violence, so HE flooded the earth.
• GOD promised not to ever intervene with a global flood, thus turning governance of humans over to humans.
• GOD does not want any human to act violently, but with peace.

 

It does not seem that GOD is urging humans to hit each other, beat each other, fight wildly causing accidental harm to unborn children or permanent bodily harm. Unfortunately, HE knew that humans had a sin nature that needed to be dealt with.

 

This set of laws were not supposed to be used. The extreme consequence was probably meant to deter the behavior that would trigger the consequence. Now that the rule was put in place, it would be a sin if the rule was broken. A single sin makes a human ineligible to open the scroll that sentenced Satan.

 

JESUS was the only human that obeyed every rule. HE never sinned. To me, GOD is not saying, go out and beat those who work for you. I believe HE is saying, deal with injustice as a temporary solution and let ME deal with the ultimate solution.  JESUS does not teach us to contradict the law, but HE shows us how HE overcame it.

 

Instead of seeking punishment, HE prayed for people. Instead of seeking revenge, HE asked that HIS attackers be forgiven. HE demonstrated how HE fulfilled the law by using love versus hatred.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the rules that should be followed regarding fighting, accidental death and dismemberment?
• Do you think GOD condones your violent, angry or passive meanness towards people?
• Have you looked at JESUS for your example of how to fulfill GOD’s ways?

Symbolic Cleansing

Symbolic Cleansing

Exodus 19: ¹⁰ Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes. ¹¹ And let them be ready for the third day. For on the third day the Lord will come down upon Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people. ¹² You shall set bounds for the people all around, saying, ‘Take heed to yourselves that you do not go up to the mountain or touch its base. Whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death. ¹³ Not a hand shall touch him, but he shall surely be stoned or shot with an arrow; whether man or beast, he shall not live.’ When the trumpet sounds long, they shall come near the mountain.”

 

¹⁴ So Moses went down from the mountain to the people and sanctified the people, and they washed their clothes. ¹⁵ And he said to the people, “Be ready for the third day; do not come near your wives.”

 

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GOD told Moses to tell the people to wash their clothes and get ready for HIM to come down on the third day.

 

My Observations:

• GOD seemed to be symbolically preparing the people to represent the cleansing of sin by having them wash their clothes.
• GOD seemed to be announcing that JESUS would come down from the cross in three days in this parallel number of days.
• GOD warned the people that they should not take HIS presence lightly otherwise they would be put to death.

 

Clean clothes represent spiritual purification, forgiveness and redemption through JESUS CHRIST. In the book of Revelation, we see the people who have cleaned their clothe4s in the blood of the LAMB. The three-day delay from the time Moses had the conversation with GOD until the time HE would arrive, parallels the time JESUS was crucified and when HE arose from the dead.

 

GOD does not seem to be addressing a mindset in this passage; rather, HE was demonstrating what JESUS would do. No one was allowed to touch the mountain when GOD was on it. While GOD is everywhere, there are specific places where HE declares boundaries for a specified time.

 

GOD declared this symbolic act as holy and reverence of HIM was HIS expectation. HE even told them not to procreate during this holy time, possibly because JESUS was to be the new life. This was all about GOD and HIS plan to redeem mankind.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the washing of the clothes?
• What symbolic gestures can you do to signify what GOD has done for you?
• Have you forgotten who GOD is and what HE has done by limiting beliefs?

A Chance to Reconcile

 

A Chance to Reconcile

Genesis 27: Now it came to pass, when Isaac was old and his eyes were so dim that he could not see, that he called Esau his older son and said to him, “My son.”

 

And he answered him, “Here I am.”

 

² Then he said, “Behold now, I am old. I do not know the day of my death. ³ Now therefore, please take your weapons, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me. ⁴ And make me savory food, such as I love, and bring it to me that I may eat, that my soul may bless you before I die.”

 

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Years and years after moving back to the place where Abraham bought, Isaac watched Esau grow up. He was getting old and could not see well. He called to Esau and gave him his request.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac could have blessed Esau right on the spot, but he gave him something to do.
• Isaac must have known that Esau gave away his birthright for a meal, so he gave him the opportunity to make it right.
• Isaac was willing to reinstate the blessing if Esau put in the effort.

 

Esau saddened Isaac and Rebekah by marrying the Hittite women. These women may have lived in the “care-less” culture, doing and saying as they please. They may not have followed what GOD wanted. Esau had great hunting skills, but may have left the cooking to everyone else.

 

Isaac requested that “he” make the food this time and was prepared to make everything right again by blessing him. This could be Esau’s chance to fix what he had broken.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD tells Moses about the conversation between Isaac and Esau?
• Have you ever thought you messed up with GOD and was given the opportunity to reconcile?
• Can you take a moment and ask GOD to reconcile with you, so HE can forgive and cleanse you to do HIS next assignment for you?

Stunned

Stunned

Genesis 24: ¹⁵ And it happened, before he had finished speaking, that behold, Rebekah, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham’s brother, came out with her pitcher on her shoulder. ¹⁶ Now the young woman was very beautiful to behold, a virgin; no man had known her. And she went down to the well, filled her pitcher, and came up. ¹⁷ And the servant ran to meet her and said, “Please let me drink a little water from your pitcher.”

 

¹⁸ So she said, “Drink, my lord.” Then she quickly let her pitcher down to her hand, and gave him a drink. ¹⁹ And when she had finished giving him a drink, she said, “I will draw water for your camels also, until they have finished drinking.” ²⁰ Then she quickly emptied her pitcher into the trough, ran back to the well to draw water, and drew for all his camels. ²¹ And the man, wondering at her, remained silent so as to know whether the Lord had made his journey prosperous or not.

 

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Abraham’s servant was praying to the LORD, probably because he had seen Abraham do this often. He was not testing GOD or even trying to muster up faith by forcing GOD to do the impossible on his terms. He simply asked GOD to help him not make a mistake in choosing a wife for Isaac. Before he could finish speaking, Rebekah came out with her pitcher on her shoulders.

 

My Observations:

• The HOLY SPIRIT orchestrated the perfect timing of Abraham’s servant being at the well when Rebekah came out.
• Rebekah had a servant leader’s heart, able to serve strangers without complaint or personal gain.
• Abraham’s servant was stunned because the LORD answered his prayer exactly as he asked.

 

“Is this too good to be true?”, the servant may have asked himself. He asked a very specific prayer and it was answered so quickly and specifically. I believe GOD still does this. HE does not mind a specific prayer that is coupled with the right heart.

 

Abraham’s servant would gain nothing from this prayer being answered. The wife would be for Isaac, and Abraham would get the promise GOD had for him. Abraham’s servant wanted what was best for everyone else because he was already blessed by running Abraham’s household. He had everything Abraham had so he was as wealthy as Abraham. His prayer was answered.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD mention to Moses that Abraham’s servant remained silent, “wondering at her?”
• Have you ever asked GOD for something and it came through so quickly that you were stunned?
• Are you willing to ask GOD for something for someone else without the need for personal gain?

Clean Shining Linen

Clean Shining Linen

Revelation 19: ⁵ Then there came from the throne the sound of a voice, saying, “Praise our God, all his servants and all people, both great and small, who have reverence for him!” ⁶ Then I heard what sounded like a crowd, like the sound of a roaring waterfall, like loud peals of thunder. I heard them say, “Praise God! For the Lord, our Almighty God, is King! ⁷ Let us rejoice and be glad; let us praise his greatness! For the time has come for the wedding of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself for it. ⁸ She has been given clean shining linen to wear.” (The linen is the good deeds of God's people.)

 

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Feeling pretty hungry, I decided to leave work and go to lunch. I looked in my wallet and had just enough money to buy my lunch. Yes, I said money and not a debit card. I knew of a place that I could get a full meal for the amount I had. I ran into a person who asked me for some money.

 

• I had to decide if I was going to eat or help this person eat.
• I had only enough money for one person to eat.
• I missed lunch that day.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw an amazing sight. He witnessed every person who believed in and served the living GOD, wearing “clean shining linen.” He then was given where the clothes came from. “The linen is the good deeds of GOD’s people.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD wants me to be one of “HIS people” so I can enjoy an eternal relationship with HIM.
• GOD sees every deed I did and will do, and HE turns the good ones into “clean shining linen.”
• I sometimes question why do good, when I have problems that need a good deed.

 

“What about me?” is the question I sometimes ask GOD. I mean, it seems like when I have the least amount of money, someone comes up to me and asks for my last dollar. “Come on GOD, can’t YOU plan a little better?” I question HIM in frustration. BUT GOD is gentle with HIS response with me.

 

HE gently says to me “Do it this time and trust that I have much more for you.” I sigh and obey HIS leading. Every time I have done this, HE blesses me here on earth and in heaven. I then feel foolish that I did not want to serve in the first place. I am glad GOD gives me many opportunities to do HIS good deeds.

 

Challenge

• Does it seem like the writer was having a hard time describing what he saw and heard?
• Have you ever been faced with the dilemma of doing something good for someone versus taking care of your own dire need?
• Will you continue to seek doing GOD’s good deeds, knowing HE sees you and loves every good deed you do in JESUS name today?

Heart Trapped

Heart Trapped

Revelation 9: ²⁰ The rest of the human race, all those who had not been killed by these plagues, did not turn away from what they themselves had made. They did not stop worshiping demons, nor the idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood, which cannot see, hear, or walk. ²¹ Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic, their sexual immorality, or their stealing.

 

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“Do not pour grease in the sink” was the warning I received. For a while I heeded the warning. But one day, I questioned it. “Perhaps if I run some hot water with the grease, then it will be okay to pour it in the sink” was my rational thought. I did this for a while and not only clogged the sink, but I clogged the grease trap.

 

• I did not want to believe the warning.
• I could have avoided unnecessary problems.
• I had to look inside of a smelly disgusting grease trap that held months of rancid, foul looking grease that would not allow anything good to pass through it.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, continued his description of what he saw after the sixth angel blew his trumpet. Horrible plagues were shown and a third of humans died, yet the remaining inhabitants of the earth would not turn away from “what they themselves had made”, namely idols and blatant sin.

 

My Observations:

• GOD sees my blatant sin and warns me to “stop.”
• The heart is desperately wicked and makes me want to leave GOD and blame HIM for HIS strict ways.
• Knowing what GOD wants requires me to surrender my desires so I can be successful in GOD’s eyes, not human’s.

 

Being willing to let go of something that is bad for me is not easy. I mean, when my heart has rationalized that my sin should be justified or overlooked, then I find myself on the wrong side of GOD. HE literally cannot stand it when I take matters in my own hands versus allowing HIM to be GOD in my life.

 

GOD must be GOD. HE does not want me to place anything or anyone over HIM. HE wants me to surrender my life to HIM so I can relinquish the sin that stirs HIS anger. GOD is forgiving, and HE wants me to be forgiving too. Sin, blinds me from that forgiveness. I must turn to HIM so HE can heal my land.

 

Challenge

• What heart is the writer trying to convey?
• Have you ever blatantly did something wrong and were unwilling to change?
• Will you seek GOD’s love by being willing to let go of your ways and allow HIM to live inside your heart to guide you today?

Beyond Bitterness

 

Beyond Bitterness

Revelation 8: ¹⁰ Then the third angel blew his trumpet. A large star, burning like a torch, dropped from the sky and fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water. ¹¹ (The name of the star is “Bitterness.”) A third of the water turned bitter, and many people died from drinking the water, because it had turned bitter.

 

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After the hike, I was thirsty. We got back to the campsite and there was a water pump. We gathered around it in delight! I cupped my hands under the pump as someone raised and lowered the handle. I got excited hearing the pump rumble, but when the water came out, it was brown and rusty!

 

• Initially the water was rusty.
• We could not drink the water until the pump lines were cleared.
• We had to boil the water to make it drinkable.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard the third angel blow the trumpet. Then a star hit earth, contaminating a third of fresh water sources. This was the third of seven steps to continue to take down Satan’s kingdom.

 

My Observations:

• GOD will make the earth an uncomfortable place to live.
• Satan tempted JESUS with the things of this world, BUT GOD will tear down what he could offer.
• Believers in JESUS will not have to thirst, because GOD will supply living water.

 

Bitterness is a problem. I mean, when GOD uses bitterness to destroy something, it must be bad. I can have bitterness in my heart that isn’t good. I can see the injustice of a people group or remember what someone did or did not do to me or for me and react in a bitter way. Bitter is a sharp, pungent, taste or smell.  GOD has a remedy for bitterness.

 

JESUS died for my sins, even the bitter ones. HIS grace is sufficient to cover my sin of bitterness. HE is willing to reshape my heart instead of allowing it to be hardened towards any one person. HE can change any heart, and it starts with mine.

 

Challenge

• Are you surprised by what the writer saw?
• Have you ever tasted bitter water?
• Will you seek to understand GOD’s plan so you can remove any bitterness from your heart towards “that” person so you can allow GOD into your heart today?

Heart Store

Heart Store
Revelation 3: ¹⁴ “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:
 
“This is the message from the Amen, the faithful and true witness, who is the origin of all that God has created. ¹⁵ I know what you have done; I know that you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were either one or the other! ¹⁶ But because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I am going to spit you out of my mouth! ¹⁷ You say, ‘I am rich and well off; I have all I need.’ But you do not know how miserable and pitiful you are! You are poor, naked, and blind. ¹⁸ I advise you, then, to buy gold from me, pure gold, in order to be rich. Buy also white clothing to dress yourself and cover up your shameful nakedness. Buy also some ointment to put on your eyes, so that you may see. ¹⁹ I rebuke and punish all whom I love. Be in earnest, then, and turn from your sins. ²⁰ Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if any hear my voice and open the door, I will come into their house and eat with them, and they will eat with me. ²¹ To those who win the victory I will give the right to sit beside me on my throne, just as I have been victorious and now sit by my Father on his throne.
 
²² “If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches!”

 

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Looking at the weather, I decided to miss going to the group. It was raining that day. The next time to meet it was too nice to be sitting around with a group so I missed it to continue to enjoy the nice weather. “Do you want to come over and watch the game?” was the statement that easily took me away from going to the group the next time.

 

• I was not vested in the group.
• I was not for the group or against the group.
• I figured the group would be alright because there were a lot of people, so they would not miss me.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, quoted JESUS when writing about Laodicea. This stern warning was about lukewarmness. At one point Laodicea was on fire. But along the way, they became proud of their size, programs and human success. JESUS rebuked their human wealth and told them to exchange it for HIS wealth.

 

My Observations:

• GOD sees my heart and wants it to be rich with HIS love.
• GOD wants to come into my heart so I cannot have it filled with the lust of the world.
• What is valuable to GOD should be valuable to me.

 

I may get what I want but not want what I get. I mean, GOD seems gracious enough to me to allow me to get things I want that are not good for me. This strange love can be costly to me. If I choose to brag and boast about what “I” have accomplished and label it as GOD, HE could be upset at what seems to be “success.”

 

GOD wants me to check to see if I have fallen each day. HE corrects me when I stay and humbles me when I boast. GOD is willing to heal me when I ask HIM into my heart.

 

Challenge

• Why does JESUS seem to focus on money?
• Have you tried to measure GOD’s success by human wealth standards?
• Will you allow GOD into your heart so HE can correct any wrong and guide you to win the victory?

Live In

Live In

3 John 1: ¹ From the Elder—

To my dear Gaius, whom I truly love.

² My dear friend, I pray that everything may go well with you and that you may be in good health—as I know you are well in spirit. ³ I was so happy when some Christians arrived and told me how faithful you are to the truth—just as you always live in the truth. ⁴ Nothing makes me happier than to hear that my children live in the truth.

 

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“You have to eat specific foods” said the personal trainer at the gym. I wanted to get into heavy weightlifting and found myself unable to get beyond where I was at. People surrounded me and had me start over with technique, food and rest advice.

 

• I knew what to do, but it was up to me to actually do something about it.
• I had to change my lifestyle to be part of this new world to me.
• I had to be presented with what to do so I could make the change.

 

John starts off his third letter with a greeting to Gaius. He had heard about the faith Gaius was showing. Gaius was living in “the truth.” John may have talked to him about CHRIST and heard word that Gaius was “living in the truth.”

 

My Observations:

• JESUS is the Way “the Truth” and the Life, in which I can receive eternal life.
• GOD wants me to love my neighbors versus complaining about them and HE wants me to love HIM more than anything I have.
• Living in CHRIST provides me with all the protection that I need.

 

Knowing versus doing is a quandary we all face. I mean, GOD placed right from wrong inside all of us by writing HIS law on every heart, yet we choose not to follow HIS ways. BUT HE made a way back to HIM through JESUS.

 

By accepting CHRIST as my personal Savior, I can follow HIS ways without questioning them or fighting them. HE provides the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside my heart and to guide me  HE provides boundaries for me to live in and I am freed from the pressures of the world and can simply “be.” I gladly abide in what GOD has for me.

 

Challenge

• Do you sense the love from the writer?
• Have you ever known what was right to do, yet you did not or could not bring yourself to do it?
• Will you seek JESUS by asking HIM, “How do YOU want me to live? And let the HOLY SPIRIT guide you to “live in” HIS ways today?

 

Knowing How to Ask

Knowing How to Ask

1 John 5: ¹³ I am writing this to you so that you may know that you have eternal life—you that believe in the Son of God. ¹⁴ We have courage in God's presence, because we are sure that he hears us if we ask him for anything that is according to his will. ¹⁵ He hears us whenever we ask him; and since we know this is true, we know also that he gives us what we ask from him.

 

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“Can I go outside?” was my innocent question “No, it’s about to rain” was the decline. “Can I use the car?” “No, you don’t have your driver’s license yet.” “Can I have time off?” was the question I asked my boss later in life. “No, the company is in a state of emergency and we need everyone.” “Why does ‘everybody’ tell me NO!?

 

• I was tired of hearing NO for an answer.
• I was tired of not getting “my” way.
• I was tired of having to ask for stuff!

 

John addressed those who had needs. He first provided comfort to those who believe in JESUS as the Savior, by telling them they have eternal life. But what about life on earth? He addressed that to by saying “HE hears us if we ask HIM for anything that is according to HIS will.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD is sovereign and has the right to hear all of my requests and can say “Yes”, “No” or “Not Right Now.”
• GOD wants to help me be part of HIS plan.
• My requests work best when they align with GOD’s will.

 

Asking GOD for anything does not mean I will get everything. I mean, if I were to ask for something sinful, HE will say “No.” He will then guide me to grow up and ask HIM “What do YOU want?”

 

GOD gets excited when I try to align with HIS will. HE sees my efforts to do what pleases HIM, namely seeking the lost and serving my neighbors. HE cam to seek and to serve, so should I. I am glad GOD hears and answers my prayers with a “Yes” when I align to HIS good and perfect will.

 

Challenge:

• Why does the writer mention courage?
• Have you ever wanted something that you knew was not good for you?
• Will you align your request to GOD’s will and seek what HE wants today?

Entrance Plan

Entrance Plan

1 John 3: ¹¹ The message you heard from the very beginning is this: we must love one another. ¹² We must not be like Cain; he belonged to the Evil One and murdered his own brother Abel. Why did Cain murder him? Because the things he himself did were wrong, and the things his brother did were right.

 

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After a colleague was “reduced” from the workforce, I felt enraged. Me and another peer decided to meet with the leader of the organization. We prepared for the meeting by discussing how outraged we were, as if we were putting on combat gear. The meeting kept getting moved, but when we had it, we lit into the leader.

 

• I was preparing to be heard, not to hear.
• I was furious and all I could think about was rage.
• I did not have any room in my heart for the leader we met with.

 

John took everyone back to the foundational action all believers in CHRIST should have, namely “love one another.” He gave the first example of hatred by showing how Cain despised Abel’s “right” actions. He explained that Cain was so consumed with hatred, that he murdered his brother. John may have written this to ward off any feelings of hatred the persecuted people may have had.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gave the commandment to “love one another” because HE is love.
• When I take love into places where war is expected, better things happen.
• GOD’s love is the only cure for the hatred that seems to be spreading more rapidly than usual.

 

Being enraged can cause me permanent damage. I mean, when I get so mad at this person or that person, I am willing to cut him or her off from GOD’s message of love. This requires that I examine my heart, because if I don’t want everyone to believe in CHRIST, I may not be on HIS side.

 

GOD wants everyone redeemed, even those who may have wronged you and me. HIS grace far exceeds any that you and I can imagine. HE loves those who hate people. HIS grace can cover a multitude of sins. I am glad GOD has provided an entrance plan to address arguments, namely love one another.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer used Cain as the example?
• Have you ever been so enraged that you did not think of your words or actions which may have been hatred?
• Instead or preparing for combat, can you take love into your conversations?
• Will you examine your heart and your words to see if there is any slander, prejudice, judgment or even hatred so you can give them to GOD for HIM to cleanse your heart today?

Heart Training

Heart Training

2 Peter 2: ¹⁴ They want to look for nothing but the chance to commit adultery; their appetite for sin is never satisfied. They lead weak people into a trap. Their hearts are trained to be greedy. They are under God's curse! ¹⁵ They have left the straight path and have lost their way; they have followed the path taken by Balaam son of Beor, who loved the money he would get for doing wrong ¹⁶ and was rebuked for his sin. His donkey spoke with a human voice and stopped the prophet's insane action.

 

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After trying out sex, I wanted more. My mind wandered thinking about it. After lying without getting caught, I lied some more. It was easy. After sneaking home while working as a janitor, I planned more “fun time” when I was supposed to be working.

 

• My heart was getting trained to lust.
• My heart was getting trained to lie.
• My heart was getting trained to be sneaky and unreliable.

 

Peter continued his warning against false teachers. He pointed out more of their motives they would use to get their way. He then gave an example of Balaam son of Beor who considered cursing GOD’s people for money. He was rebuked or reprimanded until he changed his heart.

 

My Observations:

• GOD will let me do what I want to do but eventually if I do what HE does not want me to do, HE will step in and rebuke or reprimand me.
• GOD wants me to turn my heart over to HIM so HE can live in it.
• GOD is willing to cleanse me of all unrighteousness if I am willing to confess my sins to HIM, wanting HIM to take away my appetite for the sin.

 

Hearts can be trained. I mean, I can learn to love or learn to hate people. When I learn to hate, I disguise it, justify it and use it often. “It’s their fault I am this way” would be my justification. BUT GOD wants me to see HIM without being blind.

 

GOD wants me to train my heart to follow HIS examples of grace, mercy and love. HE even did away with all the rules by giving one command, namely “Love one another.” This action fulfills all the rules. I am glad GOD loves me enough to guide me towards HIS way of thinking.

 

Challenge

• Why Is the writer so determined in the warning that is given?
• Have you ever done something you knew in your heart was wrong, yet you did it anyway?
• Will you turn your heart over to GOD and allow HIM to remove the things you know you should not be doing so HE can use you to grow the kingdom today?

Dirty Hands, Dirty Feet

Dirty Hands, Dirty Feet

Hebrews 10: ¹⁹ We have, then, my friends, complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place by means of the death of Jesus. ²⁰ He opened for us a new way, a living way, through the curtain—that is, through his own body. ²¹ We have a great priest in charge of the house of God. ²² So let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, with hearts that have been purified from a guilty conscience and with bodies washed with clean water. ²³ Let us hold on firmly to the hope we profess, because we can trust God to keep his promise. ²⁴ Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good. ²⁵ Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.

 

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After playing outside, a neighbor invited us into their house. It was a strange invitation, because we really had never been inside this particular home. “Take off your shoes” was the first statement. “Sit on the plastic covered furniture” was the next statement. The walls were white and so wase the carpet.

 

• I felt like I was dirty.
• I felt uneasy being around something clean while I was dirty.
• I felt I could not touch anything or do anything because I would make the clean stuff dirty.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, tells everyone that, through JESUS, there is “complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place.” This is the sanctuary of GOD and no sin is allowed. He implies that we have freedom to walk around because JESUS made us clean.

 

My Observations:

• GOD is holy enough to clean me up to be in HIS presence.
• JESUS died for my sins so I could become holy enough to into into the Most Holy Place.
• Since I am in the Most Holy Place, GOD wants me to use it well.

 

Bam, “you are clean, now what?”” is the tone of the message. I mean, as dirty as I have been, JESUS cleaned me up. I don’t even know the areas I am dirty. HE sees my entire being and cleans areas of me that would not be allowed to enter into the Holy Place.

 

I can now come near to GOD with a purified heart, clean body, firm hope concern for others and a desire to meet with others. The HOLY SPIRIT provides the ability to do go and show love. I am glad GOD allows me to be cleaned of all unrighteousness.

 

Challenge

• What is “The Most Holy Place” the writer speaks about?
• Have you ever felt that you have sinned too much to be loved and forgiven by GOD?
• Has someone made you feel less than clean?
• Will you turn your life to JESUS so HE can truly cleanse you and give you access to GOD who has great things planned for you today? 

Outward Appearance

 

Outward Appearance

Hebrews 9: ⁶ This is how those things have been arranged. The priests go into the outer tent every day to perform their duties, ⁷ but only the high priest goes into the inner tent, and he does so only once a year. He takes with him blood which he offers to God on behalf of himself and for the sins which the people have committed without knowing they were sinning. ⁸ The Holy Spirit clearly teaches from all these arrangements that the way into the Most Holy Place has not yet been opened as long as the outer tent still stands. ⁹ This is a symbol which points to the present time. It means that the offerings and animal sacrifices presented to God cannot make the worshiper's heart perfect, ¹⁰ since they have to do only with food, drink, and various purification ceremonies. These are all outward rules, which apply only until the time when God will establish the new order.

 

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“You’re too skinny” were the cutting words I did not like. “Your hair is nappy” and “Your glasses look like professor glasses.”  At the time I felt I could do nothing about my appearance, but really wanted to change.

 

• I found myself insecure about my appearance.
• I wished that people would have looked on the inside instead of focusing on the outside.
• I thought that if I focused on the outer appearance, then maybe people would investigate the inner me.

 

Paul, the assumed writer,  discussed the “outer” and “inner” tents that were used by priests and the high priest for sin offerings. Special rituals were performed to atone for sin, but this atonement was temporary. They could never truly cleanse the heart.

 

My Observations:

• Following the Law temporarily gives me relief from the enemy, but following GOD gives me eternal relief.
• Trying to do what the Law says makes me look good in front of people, BUT GOD knows my inner heart and is the only one who can cleanse it.
• JESUS became the sin offering for me and the HOLY SPIRIT dwells in me to protect the inner sanctuary.

 

Trying to be perfect only appeals to the outer appearance. I mean, when I try to look good in front o everyone, yet I carry sin that he or she does not know about, my righteous appearance carries an odor of stench to the LORD. BUT GOD has a way to cleanse me.

 

Through JESUS, I am cleansed. HE does not look at my outer appearance, rather searches deep in my heart. HE then sends the HOLY SPIRIT to dwell in me and cleanse me of all my sins. HE even protects the inner sanctuary from the enemy. I am glad I do not have to look good to GOD for HIM to love me.

 

Challenge

• What futility is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever tried to be “good” or look “good” in front of people?
• If you are focused on your outer appearance, will you begin to ask GOD to cleanse your inner appearance that is naked before HIM anyway?

Circumcised, Baptized, Symbolized

Circumcised, Baptized, Symbolized

Colossians 2: ¹¹ In union with Christ you were circumcised, not with the circumcision that is made by human beings, but with the circumcision made by Christ, which consists of being freed from the power of this sinful self. ¹² For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ through your faith in the active power of God, who raised him from death. 

 

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Joining a group made me feel like I finally fit in. I had gone through all the barriers of joining and received a pin that represented my inclusion in the group. To some, this was a symbol that would shape their life.

 

• I felt I was part of a group.
• I wore my symbols proudly.
• I thought the group gave me “purpose.”

 

Paul spoke of the symbolism of circumcision and baptism. He lets everyone know that true circumcision is not from humans rather it is a spiritual cutting of the heart that results  being freed from the enslaving power of sin. He also explains that baptism is a symbolic death and resurrection believers can share to show their faith in JESUS.

 

My Observations

• I can celebrate being freed from sin every day by recognizing JESUS.
• I can show the world I “belong” to the largest family that will live eternally by praising JESUS.
• I can live as a freed person by placing my trust in JESUS.

 

Circumcision and baptism are nice symbolic rituals, BUT GOD wants my heart. I mean, the rules have to apply for men and women alike. HE sees the sin in my heart and knows I need surgery that can only come from HIM.

 

HE cuts away the sin that clings to my soul and replaces it with HIS SPIRIT. HE then washes away all my sins with the blood of JESUS which covers me from head to toe. The blood that JESUS shed for me is still powerful enough to raise me from the dead. I am glad I have already been raised from an eternal death.

 

Challenge

• What circumcision is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever just wanted to be “free?”
• Will you accept CHRIST’s freedom by being baptized into HIS vast family so you can belong to HIM today?

Transposed Heart

Transposed Heart

Philippians 1: ⁷ You are always in my heart! And so it is only right for me to feel as I do about you. For you have all shared with me in this privilege that God has given me, both now that I am in prison and also while I was free to defend the gospel and establish it firmly. ⁸ God is my witness that I tell the truth when I say that my deep feeling for you all comes from the heart of Christ Jesus himself.

 

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Speeding down the expressway, I was making “good” time. I prided myself on driving fast without endangering slowpokes around me. As traffic slowed up ahead, I did the same. But before I could get near to the car in front of me, another car darted in. This made me mad. The darter then took off on the shoulder and weaved dangerously through traffic with numerous near misses.

 

• I hoped to see him or her in an accident!
• I wanted the worst to happen to the driver to teach him or her a lesson.
• I looked intently to see if there was a wreck that included the darter and was slightly disappointed when I did not.

 

Paul expresses his deep gratitude for those who helped him spread the Gospel of JESUS. Their loyalty to GOD was shown whether Paul was in prison or free. This only came because Saul, now Paul, had a change of heart.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to give HIM my heart so HE can change it.
• Slow to anger, and quick to forgive are traits GOD has and wants me to mimic.
• Seeing someone else’s purpose in GOD is HIS desire for me.

 

Being excited about someone who is excited for GOD is what I am supposed to do. I mean, rather than complain about how he or she said something wrong or sang something out of tune or did not give, GOD wants me excited that he or she has accepted CHRIST as the Savior.

 

With this excitement, I should have no complaints. Unfortunately, like the darting driver, I wanted to see people “get theirs.” BUT GOD has way too much grace for that. HE allows him or her to sin, thinking they got away with it. HE also sees my calloused heart and forgives that too. HE says “MY grace is sufficient” and means it. I am glad the HOLY SPIRIT gives me a new heart daily.

 

Challenge

• What is the heart of the writer?
• Have you ever been upset at someone and wanted him or her to fail?
• Will you ask GOD to change your heart versus trying to get HIM to change “that” person today?

Heart Repair

Heart Repair

Philippians 1: From Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus—

To all God's people in Philippi who are in union with Christ Jesus, including the church leaders and helpers:

 

² May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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Just getting a job was my heart’s desire at one point. But after a period of working, it was not enough. I needed to move up in the company. The pay, while good at one point, was now not enough. The work seemed repetitive and the people wore me down. “Why do they always listen to that guy?” was my complaint.

 

• I was discontent
• I wanted more.
• I lost my thankfulness.

 

Paul and Timothy send greetings to everyone through a letter to the Philippians. The title they gave themselves was that of a “servant.”  Their desire was to bless everyone with grace and peace that only came from GOD.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to trade in my need to be on top to that of being on the bottom.
• GOD wants me to desire more for others than myself.
• GOD wants me to value being a servant more than being served.

 

Serving people is GOD’s highest honor. I mean, when I serve someone, the hole in my heart gets filled. Unfortunately, when I am serving people for my own personal gain, then it can wear on me, causing me to be discontent. I long for something else “better” than the role I am playing at the moment.

 

BUT GOD has a remedy. HE makes me a servant wherever I am. HE guides my mindset to giving others the best, knowing I am adding to a huge “reward” account HE is storing up for me. HE changes my view of something negative into seeing that I  am serving others because HE wants me to. I am glad GOD guides me to those HE wants me to serve.

 

Challenge

• What stands out to you in this opening greeting from the writers?
• Have you ever felt discontent even when your prayers have been answered?
• Will you receive GOD’s grace and peace today by taking a deep breath and serving others without expectations so HE will fill your heart with overflowing thanksgiving?

Becoming Secure

Becoming Secure

Ephesians 4: ²⁵ No more lying, then! Each of you must tell the truth to the other believer, because we are all members together in the body of Christ. ²⁶ If you become angry, do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not stay angry all day. ²⁷ Don't give the Devil a chance. ²⁸ If you used to rob, you must stop robbing and start working, in order to earn an honest living for yourself and to be able to help the poor. 

 

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“Fine” was the lying reply I used to the question “How are you?” to keep from telling the truth that many aspects of my life were falling apart. I did not want to continuously be a burden and I wasn’t feeling secure enough to tell the truth.

 

• I felt insecure so I answered questions in ways to avoid conversations where I looked pitiful.
• I felt frustrated so I let my anger guide my mouth and other actions.
• I felt deserving so I listened to temptations and fell into sin.

 

Paul speaks with a very direct tone when addressing specific examples of old ways to turn from. He sees that some were acting out of their insecurities and falling into the trap of lying to others and themselves. He gives guidelines to enable self-control.

 

My Observations

• Security is something GOD wants me to place in HIM.
• Anger is allowed but requires me to communicate to GOD so HE can diffuse it.
• Broader thinking and surrender is something GOD wants me to add to my choices.

 

Thinking of protecting myself, I can easily fall into lies, get angry and even consider robbing others by stealing money, people or credit for something he or she should be credited for. The old childish ways of insecurity gives the Devil a chance all the time. BUT GOD provides a way out.

 

HE shows me that I am part of a larger family of sick and hurt people. No one is more superior than the next. I can tell the truth about my situation because the next person needs to hear what I am experiencing. Self-control is part of the fruit of the SPIRIT. I am glad GOD offers me a way back to HIS path by becoming secure in HIS love for me.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer gives this strong warning?
• Have you ever fallen for some items listed and found out things were worse?
• What insecurities are you battling that make you question GOD’s true love for you?
• Will you become more secure by letting go of some of your self-protection and allow GOD to provide the answer in HIS way and time?

Breaking Old Habits

Breaking Old Habits

Ephesians 4: ¹⁷ In the Lord's name, then, I warn you: do not continue to live like the heathen, whose thoughts are worthless ¹⁸ and whose minds are in the dark. They have no part in the life that God gives, for they are completely ignorant and stubborn. ¹⁹ They have lost all feeling of shame; they give themselves over to vice and do all sorts of indecent things without restraint.

 

²⁰ That was not what you learned about Christ! ²¹ You certainly heard about him, and as his followers you were taught the truth that is in Jesus. ²² So get rid of your old self, which made you live as you used to—the old self that was being destroyed by its deceitful desires. ²³ Your hearts and minds must be made completely new, ²⁴ and you must put on the new self, which is created in God's likeness and reveals itself in the true life that is upright and holy.

 

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Scared and shamed, I peeped through the hole in the door of the women’s locker room at school. This made me want the “real thing.” In college I progressed to “the real thing”, but did it under the cover of night. Someone said to me “I saw your car parked overnight in front of a certain dorm.” He was proud of me.

 

• I was no longer shamed.
• I was progressing down a path where I was led by my desires.
• I was ready to defend the dangerous path I was on in an ignorant and stubborn way.

 

Paul is very direct with his words as he addressed a concern with those who had given up on following purity as a means of worshipping GOD. Their lying minds had put them on a path where they were no longer ashamed of their actions, rather they had found a crowd who accepted their deceitful desires.

 

My Observations

• Only GOD can provide a new heart and mind for me.
• When life seems hopeless, I have a new self I can put on that is made by GOD.
• GOD’s likeness is a way of life that I can strive for.

 

Getting rid of old habits is not always easy. I mean, when life’s pressures come knocking on my heart, I want to throw away self-control and indulge in the ways of the world for a moment of pleasure. BUT GOD wants different.

 

HE offers a better way that is full of life. GOD has a life that is full of truth which is upright and holy. HIS path is always right and HIS rewards will never fall away. I gladly surrender my life to GOD, daily.

 

Challenge

• Was the message of the writer shocking to you?
• Is there any part of you that seems to keep you from growing up that you struggle with?
• Will you believe GOD gives you another chance daily because HE is willing to wipe away your sins?
• Will you remain encouraged and ask GOD for HIS help with keeping you on HIS path so you can put on the “new self” as the answer with a new heart and new mind today?

Roomy Inside

Roomy Inside

Ephesians 3: ¹⁶ I ask God from the wealth of his glory to give you power through his Spirit to be strong in your inner selves, ¹⁷ and I pray that Christ will make his home in your hearts through faith. I pray that you may have your roots and foundation in love, ¹⁸ so that you, together with all God's people, may have the power to understand how broad and long, how high and deep, is Christ's love. ¹⁹ Yes, may you come to know his love—although it can never be fully known—and so be completely filled with the very nature of God.

 

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After being mugged at a certain train stop, I thought of ways to avoid going back. When I absolutely had to go there, I thought of ways to be safe, so I walked in the middle of the crowd. I narrowed my routes to safe routes, or maybe not even going out at all.

 

• Fear made me narrow my thinking.
• Worry made me focus on “what bad could happen.”
• Doubt made me insecure.

 

Difficulties and hardship were the norm for Paul. He had been jailed, beaten and almost put to death because of his belief in JESUS. This unglamorous life required more than surface actions. It required faith. This was the only place large enough to hold GOD.

 

My Observations

• My heart is too small for GOD to live in so HE adds faith to stretch it so HE can fit.
• Circumstances attempt to make my heart small BUT GOD lives inside me to give me inner peace.
• Situations may tempt me to use hatred as the answer, BUT GOD provides the true foundation of love from which HE builds a home in my heart.

 

Trying to use GOD for personal gain is small heart thinking. I mean, when I think of my own desires, other people cannot fit in my heart. GOD wants me to align to HIS desires. HE wants all HIS flock to be saved through belief in JESUS.

 

HE spreads this perfect message of love and forgiveness through imperfect people. HE and HE alone provides inner peace. I may never know just how broad and long, how high and deep CHRIST’s love is for me, but I am willing to learn a little so HE can live in me.

 

Challenge

• Where does the writer say true power comes from?
• Have you ever had situations and circumstances that caused you to have fear, worry or doubt?
• Will you place your faith in JESUS who will provide the HOLY SPIRIT, giving you access to the FATHER who forgives, loves and fills you from emptiness today?