Agreeing With the Book of the Covenant

Agreeing With the Book of the Covenant

Exodus 24: Now He said to Moses, “Come up to the Lord, you and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, and worship from afar. ² And Moses alone shall come near the Lord, but they shall not come near; nor shall the people go up with him.”

 

³ So Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord and all the judgments. And all the people answered with one voice and said, “All the words which the Lord has said we will do.” ⁴ And Moses wrote all the words of the Lord. And he rose early in the morning, and built an altar at the foot of the mountain, and twelve pillars according to the twelve tribes of Israel. ⁵ Then he sent young men of the children of Israel, who offered burnt offerings and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen to the Lord. ⁶ And Moses took half the blood and put it in basins, and half the blood he sprinkled on the altar. ⁷ Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read in the hearing of the people. And they said, “All that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient.” ⁸ And Moses took the blood, sprinkled it on the people, and said, “This is the blood of the covenant which the Lord has made with you according to all these words.”

 

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After hearing GOD’s voice, the people got scared and asked Moses to speak to GOD. So GOD spoke to Moses and gave him laws, rules and guidelines to protect the children of Israel. Moses wrote them down and read them to the children of Israel. They agreed.

 

My Observations:

• GOD told Moses to bring Aaron and Aaron’s sons and seventy elders up to worship HIM.
• GOD then told Moses that he was the only one who was allowed up, but the rest were closer to GOD’s proximity.
• Moses wrote all of GOD’s laws, rules and guidelines HE gave from the Ten Commandments up to this point.

 

It was now a couple of months into the trip to the promised land. GOD spoke to everyone, stating the Ten Commandments out loud. Everyone got so scared that they begged Moses to speak to GOD and for him to bring what HE said to them. GOD took time and gave Laws, rules and guidelines to Moses. He read them to the people. They agreed.

 

Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu were the first high priests outside of Moses and Aaron. It’s amazing that GOD would call specific people, knowing when and how they would fall. These brothers are known for offering “strange fire” to the LORD much later. But for now, they were part of the establishment of high priests. The people agreed when things were going well. Little did they know that times would get difficult.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD call for specific people to hear the reading of what HE commanded?
• Have you agreed to show love, joy, peace and patience and other parts of the fruit of the Spirit, yet have reneged?
• Will you praise GOD today for giving you many chances to get it right without condemning you because HE loves you?

Not Acting Like It

Not Acting Like It

Genesis 20: ⁸ So Abimelech rose early in the morning, called all his servants, and told all these things in their hearing; and the men were very much afraid. ⁹ And Abimelech called Abraham and said to him, “What have you done to us? How have I offended you, that you have brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? You have done deeds to me that ought not to be done.” ¹⁰ Then Abimelech said to Abraham, “What did you have in view, that you have done this thing?”

 

¹¹ And Abraham said, “Because I thought, surely the fear of God is not in this place; and they will kill me on account of my wife. ¹² But indeed she is truly my sister. She is the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother; and she became my wife. ¹³ And it came to pass, when God caused me to wander from my father’s house, that I said to her, ‘This is your kindness that you should do for me: in every place, wherever we go, say of me, “He is my brother.” ’ ”

 

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After his encounter with GOD, Abimelech got up “early” in the morning, bringing “all” his servants with him to talk with the men. A town hall meeting was brought together to hear what GOD said to Abimelech. When everyone heard what was said, they became afraid. Abimelech was young and the king.

 

My Observations:

• Abimelech heard from GOD that Abraham was a prophet and Sarah was protected by HIM.
• Abraham had not lied, in Egypt or in Gerar when he said Sarah was his sister.
• Abraham feared, by the actions of the people, that Sarah would be taken

 

It seemed that women were more desirable if they were married to someone. Kings would take the best for themselves and his henchmen would take the rest. This city seemed to be doing the same. They did not seem to fear GOD in any way.

 

Abraham finally came out with the truth about Sarah. Her father was Terah, Abraham’s father. But she had a different mother. He feared being killed because the men of that city acted like they would commit murder to take the wife, permanently. GOD intervened to protect Sarah.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think Abraham tells the truth about Sarah to Abimelech and not to the Pharoah of Egypt?
• Have you ever gone through so much that you realized the truth is the best way?
• Are you acting like you belong to CHRIST who is all knowing and all powerful?

Traditions and Lifespans

Traditions and Lifespans

Genesis 11: ¹² Arphaxad lived thirty-five years, and begot Salah. ¹³ After he begot Salah, Arphaxad lived four hundred and three years, and begot sons and daughters.

 

¹⁴ Salah lived thirty years, and begot Eber. ¹⁵ After he begot Eber, Salah lived four hundred and three years, and begot sons and daughters.

 

¹⁶ Eber lived thirty-four years, and begot Peleg. ¹⁷ After he begot Peleg, Eber lived four hundred and thirty years, and begot sons and daughters.

 

¹⁸ Peleg lived thirty years, and begot Reu. ¹⁹ After he begot Reu, Peleg lived two hundred and nine years, and begot sons and daughters.

 

²⁰ Reu lived thirty-two years, and begot Serug. ²¹ After he begot Serug, Reu lived two hundred and seven years, and begot sons and daughters.

 

²² Serug lived thirty years, and begot Nahor. ²³ After he begot Nahor, Serug lived two hundred years, and begot sons and daughters.

 

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As GOD transitions from Noah’s plan and purpose, HE lists specific people who would become the lineage of JESUS. I believe this set of people held onto traditions in their way of following GOD. Each person had a child in his thirties which may not have been a coincidence. Lifespans were getting shorter.

 

My Observations:

• GOD seemed to be shortening human lifespans with this list.
• This list only contains people who would eventually birth JESUS as the human Savior.
• The list is about JESUS more than a celebration of human tradition.

 

Each of these generations had parents who were having children while they were having children. Shem passed on the conversations of Noah and GOD to Arphaxad, his son and Salah, his grandson, Eber, his great grandson, Peleg, his great, great grandson, Reu, his great, great, great grandson and Serug, his great, great, great, great grandson.

 

This community was probably rich in tradition, listening to stories about people times and circumstances related to the Garden of Eden and how GOD used to walk and talk with humans. I believe they praised GOD for salvation! Shem may have described what the world looked like before the flood in extreme detail that may have made these people to desire to follow GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why, do you think, Shem’s family chose to have children in their thirties?
• Did you grow up with any traditions?
• Do you have any traditions that focus on celebrating GOD with all your heart?

After the Flood

 After the Flood

Genesis 11: ¹⁰ This is the genealogy of Shem: Shem was one hundred years old, and begot Arphaxad two years after the flood. ¹¹ After he begot Arphaxad, Shem lived five hundred years, and begot sons and daughters.

 

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All Shem’s life revolved around the ark. From the time GOD told Noah HE was going to flood the earth until the time the ark landed safely, Shem was conceived and watched his father’s extreme obedience. He may have seen Noah trying to convince people to join them in building the ark or to prepare themselves for the flood. This may have been embarrassing. But the flood did happen. Everyone Shem knew, who did not get on the ark, was dead.

 

My Observations:

• Shem may have been cautious after the flood because it was overwhelming.
• Shem seemed to be a good listener and believed in the ways of the LORD.
• Shem respected GOD’s ways by devising a plan to cover his naked father without seeing him.

 

Shem was the beginning of a special lineage, namely that of CHRIST. I know it may be confusing, but I believe it was JESUS who walked and talked with Noah. But getting back to Shem. He heard the curse on his nephew Canaan and he witnessed the building of the Tower of Babel.

 

He also heard the blessing from Noah that everyone’s descendants, meaning Japeth and Canaan, would either live in Shem’s household or serve the descendant of Shem, which would eventually be CHRIST. Shem’s possible embarrassing and traumatic childhood would lead to him staying away from the ways of Canaan. He may have also been cautious in having children, but two years after the flood, he did what the LORD commanded and became fruitful.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD mention the flood to Moses when describing Shem’s children?
• Have you ever misunderstood someone’s calling and labeled it as embarrassing?
• Is today a good day to reflect on how GOD has saved you and what HIS purpose is for you?

Message Heard

Message Heard

Genesis 9: ²⁴ So Noah awoke from his wine, and knew what his younger son had done to him. ²⁵ Then he said:

“Cursed be Canaan;
A servant of servants
He shall be to his brethren.”

²⁶ And he said:

“Blessed be the Lord,
The God of Shem,
And may Canaan be his servant.
²⁷ May God enlarge Japheth,
And may he dwell in the tents of Shem;
And may Canaan be his servant.”

²⁸ And Noah lived after the flood three hundred and fifty years. ²⁹ So all the days of Noah were nine hundred and fifty years; and he died.

 

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For a while, Noah may have ignored his grandson Canaan. It seemed that Canaan was power hungry and wanted to be known. He may have influenced his father into doing some sort of initiation by challenging Noah, walking into his tent and talking about Noah’s nakedness. When Noah awoke from his drunkenness, he may have heard about what had happened. Noah talked to GOD about it.

 

My Observations:

• GOD listened to Noah and agreed with the first curse that came from a human.
• Noah’s relationship with the LORD was so strong, that he placed his problem before HIM, knowing it would be done.
• Noah did not curse or bless Ham, rather he focused on the root cause of the power struggle, namely Canaan.

 

Obtaining many followers was probably Canaan’s desire. By making his father perform a sophomoric initiation act, he may have demonstrated his influential power. But he did not know GOD would listen to Noah. A curse was placed over Canaan and those who followed him.

 

This curse would not play out for decades, so people may have laughed, just like the people who scoffed at the need for an ark. BUT GOD also heard Noah’s cry to increase Japeth’s faith in HIM and to reward Shem for his faithfulness. This was the last notable thing Noah did for the LORD. He lived three hundred and fifty years after the flood, constantly communicating with the LORD.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD shares with Moses this conversation between HIM and Noah?
• Have you ever felt like someone, who clearly was against GOD, seemed to be holding you and others back from delightfully serving the LORD?
• Will you place your problem before the LORD today, knowing HE hears those who love HIM and HIS ways?

Cautious Perspective

Cautious Perspective

Genesis 8: ⁶ So it came to pass, at the end of forty days, that Noah opened the window of the ark which he had made. ⁷ Then he sent out a raven, which kept going to and fro until the waters had dried up from the earth. ⁸ He also sent out from himself a dove, to see if the waters had receded from the face of the ground. ⁹ But the dove found no resting place for the sole of her foot, and she returned into the ark to him, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth. So he put out his hand and took her, and drew her into the ark to himself. ¹⁰ And he waited yet another seven days, and again he sent the dove out from the ark. ¹¹ Then the dove came to him in the evening, and behold, a freshly plucked olive leaf was in her mouth; and Noah knew that the waters had receded from the earth. ¹² So he waited yet another seven days and sent out the dove, which did not return again to him anymore.

 

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Salvation came with a price. While Noah and his family were saved, everyone else had died. The ark came to a sudden stop. No more rocking in the waves. Noah was probably nervous that the judgment of GOD was not finished. He may have noticed the predators were getting restless for the first time since the journey began. He chose a raven as his scout to see if he could unlock the door of the ark, knowing he only had one chance to open the door correctly.

 

My Observations:

• GOD shut the door and made it flood.
• Noah only had one chance to open the door and if he did it too soon, all would be lost.
• The ark may have landed in a way that no one could clearly see what was going on with the water and they had to rely on birds to bring back evidence that things were alright.

 

From walking daily with the LORD to being shut into an ark with a scared family, predators and prey; Noah was probably nervous. He had not heard anything from the LORD and the animals were probably showing him that the time was near to set everything free.

 

This mountain top experience was very scary and carried a huge responsibility. “What if I mess up?” may have been a question on Noah’s mind. But he kept his wits and cautiously got a perspective. It was time to leave the ark.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Noah’s cautious approach?
• Have you ever experienced deliverance from a huge problem that made you scared or nervous to take the next step?
• Can you take a deep breath and move forward with GOD, one step at a time?

Free Will Obtained

Free Will Obtained

Genesis 4: ⁸ Now Cain^]talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.

⁹ Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?”

He said, “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?”

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GOD created the heavens and the earth with love in mind. When HE created the garden of Eden, HE made a special place for HIM to have an everlasting relationship with HIS creation. But Satan had another plan that would ruin humans. When Adam and Eve were fooled into sinning, they had a choice, but did not choose wisely.

 

Now Cain was furious at being rejected by JESUS. He was also jealous that his brother’s offering to JESUS was accepted. If Cain were an only child, there still would have been a problem between JESUS and Cain. But he wasn’t an only child. He killed his brother.

 

My Observations:

• Cain did not learn murder from anyone.
• Cain allowed anger to turn into hatred which made him commit murder.
• Cain probably stewed over the offering situation and became enraged during the conversation with Abel, which led him to murder.

 

I can only imagine the conversation between Cain and Abel. Cain, full of blame, may have asked questions as to why Abel showed him up when it came to the offering. Or maybe he tried to convince Abel to help him build the garden and to stop following JESUS. GOD did not reveal the conversation. But HE did reveal the outcome, namely murder.

I believe it was JESUS who asked Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” JESUS knew what had happened, but Cain lied. And on top of the lie, he gave a sarcastic remark about responsibilities. “Am I my brother’s keeper?”  could have been a reply referring to not being a shepherd. This was the first rejection of JESUS.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD mention the conversation between Cain and Abel?
• Have you ever argued about free will in a convenient way that fights against its existence?
• Will you recognize that GOD’s love will not stop you from sinning, rather that JESUS died for your sins and was raised from the dead to forgive you if you believe you need to be forgiven?

Finding Solid Ground

Finding Solid Ground

2 Timothy 2: ¹⁶ Keep away from profane and foolish discussions, which only drive people farther away from God. ¹⁷ Such teaching is like an open sore that eats away the flesh. Two men who have taught such things are Hymenaeus and Philetus. ¹⁸ They have left the way of truth and are upsetting the faith of some believers by saying that our resurrection has already taken place. ¹⁹ But the solid foundation that God has laid cannot be shaken; and on it are written these words: “The Lord knows those who are his” and “Those who say that they belong to the Lord must turn away from wrongdoing.”

 

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“There has to be another way” I thought to myself. “Everyone else” was doing better than me and I seemed to be “last.” I was getting tired of being a “goody-goody” and wanted to try some things the church people would call “bad.” I tried some things and lightning did not strike me like I thought. But after a while, I noticed things were getting worse and, on top of that I was not following GOD.

 

• I had lost hope in GOD and my life was a mess.
• I was trying different philosophies of the world but they were not working.
• I got to a point where I needed to return to a firm foundation and had to start over.

 

Paul gives Timothy some great advice. “Stay away from profane and foolish discussions.” The discussions would drive people, who were already away from GOD, further away from seeking HIM. He mentions two people who made up a human philosophy stating the resurrection of the LORD’s people had already happened as though everyone who was still living had missed out. This was false!

 

My Observations

• JESUS will return one day and wants me ready to be with HIM.
• GOD is the only one who knows the day and the hour of JESUS’ return.
• I need to continue life with full belief in JESUS, no matter the circumstance.

 

Seeking other philosophies that seem harmless can be quite detrimental to me. I mean, the lie of “everyone else is doing it” gets me in trouble almost every time. GOD has clear principles that HE wants me to follow. It is not just about being good and following the rules, HE wants me to really know HIM on a much deeper level.

 

HE wants to provide a “solid foundation” from which all my decisions can be made. This requires a change in my life that says “I will follow YOU LORD no matter what. I am glad GOD provides a solid foundation that I can always come back to and teach from.

 

Challenge

• What “profane and foolish” conversations do you think the writer is speaking of?
• Have you ever wanted your way so much that you are willing to leave GOD for it?
• Will you review your pursuits and seek the “Solid Foundations” of the LORD today?

Chasing Shadows

Chasing Shadows

Colossians 2: ¹⁶ So let no one make rules about what you eat or drink or about holy days or the New Moon Festival or the Sabbath. ¹⁷ All such things are only a shadow of things in the future; the reality is Christ.

 

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When I realized that my life was really, really messed up, I tried to do “right.” I started praying and reduced sins. Soon I found myself living only by “the rules.” When something else went wrong, I wondered which rule I broke to deserve a trial.

 

• I was trying to control my life.
• I was tired of things going “wrong” so I tried being “good.”
• I wound up living for the rules versus living for CHRIST.

 

Paul addressed an issue that is still going on to this very day. People worshipped food and argued over which day was holier than the next. While there may have been some merit in following “the rules” for the individual, it paled in comparison to the one solid truth, namely JESUS.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s Word is there to guide me and comfort me.
• GOD wants me to place my faith in JESUS versus being disappointed when I don’t follow the rules correctly.
• GOD wants me excited enough to tell others about JESUS instead of telling people how to “live right.”

 

JESUS is the destination. I mean, when I get caught up in trying to “be holy” I place more trust in myself, than on HIS forgiveness. JESUS paid it all. All to HIM I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain. HE washed it white as snow.

 

M destination needs to change. When I focus on what JESUS did and wants to do, it changes my wants. HE did away with all my mistakes and is in control of all my situations. I gladly live for HIM and know HE is my Savior.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use “shadow” in the description? 
• Have you ever tried to measure how good you are by the number of rules you follow?
• Will you seek placing JESUS over everything in your life so you can be satisfied with how things are going right now and so HE can reveal people HE wants to draw to HIMSELF today?

 

Best Activity

Best Activity

2 Corinthians 3: ⁷ The Law was carved in letters on stone tablets, and God's glory appeared when it was given. Even though the brightness on Moses' face was fading, it was so strong that the people of Israel could not keep their eyes fixed on him. If the Law, which brings death when it is in force, came with such glory, ⁸ how much greater is the glory that belongs to the activity of the Spirit! ⁹ The system which brings condemnation was glorious; how much more glorious is the activity which brings salvation! ¹⁰ We may say that because of the far brighter glory now the glory that was so bright in the past is gone. ¹¹ For if there was glory in that which lasted for a while, how much more glory is there in that which lasts forever!

 

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Recess, music and art were my favorite activities in school at the time. I didn’t have to think, I could just “be.” Each was guarded carefully by a teacher to make sure it was a productive activity. For example, we played organized games during recess to keep from fighting one another. But then it came time for me to “learn.”  

 

• I downplayed the importance of certain activities.
• I looked at some activities as drudgery.
• I wanted to do the activities I felt most comfortable doing, but needed more.

 

Paul explains the glorious encounter Moses had with GOD. Moses received the Law carved in stone by GOD. Just by seeing a glimpse of GOD, his face was temporarily brightened to the point where people could not look at him. He brought the Law which created a lot of “concrete” activity people could follow and measure in others. But the real activity was to come later.

 

My Observations

• JESUS died for me and was raised from the dead so HE could send the HOLY SPIRIT to live in me.
• Belief in JESUS grants me salvation that lasts forever.
• The HOLY SPIRIT reminds me of the Law, which brings death, and interceded on my behalf when I break the Law.

 

JESUS is alive! This is the great news. HE did away with the Law and became salvation for all. But the Law was the highest honor at one point. Should I simply throw it away? No! GOD wants me to seek following HIM and provided a way to continue doing so. I do not have to “earn” my salvation through the Law, I can just be saved. It feels great!

 

But it doesn’t stop there. The HOLY SPIRIT leads me to live for HIM. HE leads me to peace when there is chaos. HE guides me to be still when I want to do activity to control the situation. The activity of the HOLY SPIRIT brings salvation. I am glad I can put my trust in JESUS who blessed me with the COMFORTER to guide me along every step.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the Law versus the SPIRIT?
• Do you think they conflict?
• What activity is your mind focused on?
• Will you be led by the SPIRIT and be focused on GOD’s kingdom versus the negativity of the world today?

Origin of Wanting

 

Origin of Wanting

Romans 7: ⁷ What shall we say, then? Is the law sinful? Certainly not! Nevertheless, I would not have known what sin was had it not been for the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” ⁸ But sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, produced in me every kind of coveting. For apart from the law, sin was dead.

 

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For a while, the words “Don’t do that” meant something. I stayed away from “that.” But then I heard people who did “that.” They made “that” sound good. In fact, they teased me for not doing “that” The crowd seemed to be doing it, now I wanted to do it. The Bible said “Don’t do it.” No that was all I could think about.

 

• When I am told what not to do, it seems like that’s all I want to do.
• When I am told something is forbidden, it seems like I want to know why it is forbidden.
• When I am told stay away from something pleasurable, it seems like I can only think of that pleasurable thing.

 

Paul continues his explanation of the Law. He says the Law is not sinful, rather it exposes sin. The sin inside each person, then sees what the Law says and wants to do the opposite. BUT GOD had a remedy.

 

• GOD placed HIS law in my heart so I would know I needed a Savior.
• GOD allowed HIS SON, who volunteered, to be blamed and murdered for the sins I committed.
• GOD raised HIS SON from the dead, overcoming any sinful craving I might have.

 

At birth, sin coerces through my veins. I want the things GOD does not want me to have. The more I am told, not to want “that” the more I want it. BUT GOD took a different approach. HE knew I would not want HIM, rather I would want the sin. JESUS, being GOD, died for me.

 

“There… now sin no longer holds you.” Now that I am freed from the consequence of sin, I am grateful. This gratefulness gives me the strength to say “not this time” to the sin. My craving to do what GOD says increases with each “no” I speak to sin. I am glad JESUS mad a way out of my sin.

 

• Do you want something that you know is not good for you?
• Are you acting a way you know you should not act?
• Will you stop beating yourself up and be thankful JESUS has released you from all guilt and shame, so you can receive HIS peace today?

Feeling Better Afterwards

 

Feeling Better Afterwards

Romans 6: ¹⁵ What, then? Shall we sin, because we are not under law but under God's grace? By no means! ¹⁶ Surely you know that when you surrender yourselves as slaves to obey someone, you are in fact the slaves of the master you obey—either of sin, which results in death, or of obedience, which results in being put right with God.

 

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“Ugh! It’s raining outside” I groused to myself. I had a long day and I felt a bit tired. But it was time to go exercise. This meant leaving comfortable surroundings to do something hard. I quickly put aside the complaint and went to the gym. I felt better for going and it stopped raining when I got out.

 

• Many times I felt better by doing what I was supposed to do.
• Many times I felt better by sticking to the plan.
• Many times I felt better by avoiding the negative words that would have stopped me from doing what I was supposed to do.

 

Paul asks a rhetorical question. “Shall we sin, because we are not under law but under GOD’s grace?” He then answers “By no means!” He then shows a decision that has to be made. Either obey sin leading to death or obey GOD, leading to life.

 

• GOD wants me to obey HIS ways.
• GOD wants me to allow HIM to guide my actions.
• GOD wants me to listen to HIM, even when HE says “No” or “wait.”

 

When I sin I feel good for a moment, but feel worse afterwards. I mean, the guilt of the sin surfaces and I when look for relief from the guilt, it is nowhere to be found. BUT GOD provides another way.

 

When I struggle through and stop listening to the sin that knocks on my door daily, or hourly, I feel better. Then, when something goes “wrong” in my life, my conscience is clear and I can see GOD grace in the storm “with me” rather than wondering if it is HIM punishing me. I am glad GOD gets excited when I obey HIM.

 

• Is GOD trying to tell you something, but you are not being obedient?
• Is your hidden sin causing problems all around you, yet you are too scared or proud to confess?
• Will you stop choosing sin as your comfortable place and be uncomfortable with a clear conscience by following what GOD wants you to do today?

Change Jobs

Change Jobs

Acts 12: ¹⁶ Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. ¹⁷ But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren.” And he departed and went to another place.

¹⁸ Then, as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter. ¹⁹ But when Herod had searched for him and not found him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be put to death.

And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and stayed there.

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“I can’t do it” I said in the interview. A group of executives wanted me to fire 33% of the staff if I joined the organization. After the interview, back in my home state, someone said “You need to get tough.” The expectation of me was to go along with decisions that could cause many people to lose their jobs, keeping mine in the process.

• There were times when I thought being “tough” was good.
• There were times when I thought nothing of firing people.
• There were times when I was led by the leaders, no matter how poorly they led.

Peter knew the guards were still in close proximity so when they finally opened the door, he told them to be quiet. He had to leave town. Meanwhile the guards, who were probably very tough, panicked. They had good reason. When they could not find Peter, they were put to death by other “tough” guards at the decree of the leader.

• GOD wants me to be wise to the world’s sins but not involved in causing them.
• GOD wants me to understand that I am a sinner who needs JESUS as the answer.
• GOD wants me to know HE can take care of me without the thing I may be holding onto that is harming other people.

“LORD, what do you want me to do?” was the missing question that I never heard or asked during my rapid rise in my career. I just went with the flow. BUT GOD wanted me to be different. HE wanted me to change jobs.

Unlike the world, JESUS showed grace and extreme mercy on HIS creation. This is missing from the world today. Being “tough” and combative is heralded as a badge of honor. GOD wants me to be tough, but to defend those who are being abused, misled and misdirected. HE wants me to stand for HIS entire kingdom, leaving the vengeance and protection to HIM. In JESUS I put my trust.

• Are you pursuing something that may be harmful to you and others?
• Do you think your pursuit will help or hurt GOD’s kingdom?
• Will you consider asking GOD “What do YOU want me to do?” so HE can guide you to stay or leave for HIM today?

Reputation

Reputation

Acts 9: ³⁶ At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. ³⁷ But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. ³⁸ And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. ³⁹ Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. ⁴⁰ But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. ⁴¹ Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. ⁴² And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. ⁴³ So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner

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As I looked at my worn heels, I finally gave into the thought of getting them repaired. I voiced my decision to someone who replied “I got a shoe repair guy who is fantastic.” I took the worn shoes to him and when I got them back, they were polished with new laces and soles. I had a newish pair of shoes!

• There have been people I sought after because of their reputation.
• There have been people I wanted to work with because of their reputation.
• There have been people I paid attention to because of their reputation.

Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, had a wonderful reputation of serving people. She was a seamstress and a tailor who did far more than her craft. She touched lives in a positive, godly way. Peter was summoned because of his reputation of JESUS working through him in amazing ways. Both reputations were for GOD.

• JESUS wants me to follow HIM so I can become more like HIM.
• JESUS wants me to learn of HIM and from HIM so I can be like HIM.
• JESUS wants me to see HIS reputation as something to strive for so I can be like HIM.

People say “At my funeral I want to be known for…” in a way that says they want to be remembered by their actions. GOD wants me to fill in the dots with HIS service. HE wants me to have HIS reputation so people can know they can come to me to discuss HIM.

GOD’s reputation is one of love, life and obedience to HIM. HE loves when I serve others just because it is the right thing to do. I value what GOD thinks of me.

• Are you trying to build a reputation without bringing GOD into your life?
• Do you care more about what humans think of you than of what GOD thinks of you?
• Will you seek a reputation with GOD, so HE can use the gifts and talents HE gave you for HIS purpose today?

Being With

Being With

John 17: ²⁴ “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. ²⁵ O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. ²⁶ And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”

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Figuring out what was wrong with each person, I found out ways to avoid people. “That person was too mean” and “That person is too snobbish” I said about the “In crowd.” After my evaluation of many people I found myself alone. I mean, they weren’t friendly anyway.

• There were times when I chose not to join the crowd.
• There were times when I looked at the differences in other people as a problem.
• There were times when I separated myself because I could not find anything I had in common with the people around me.

JESUS continues HIS prayer for all who believe in HIM. HE asks the FATHER for HIS followers to be “with” HIM, to see HIM in HIS glory. But what does it mean to be “with” JESUS.

• GOD wants me to want HIM.
• GOD wants me to follow HIS ways, especially when it is difficult.
• GOD wants me to believe in HIM even when people around me do not.

Being “with” GOD means I stand for what HE stands for. HE sent HIS SON to save the world, yet the world turned their eyes away HIM. HE sees the disunity amongst humans and knows the hearts of mankind. HE draws those who truly believe in HIS SON so they can be “with” HIM in agreement. I am with GOD and I look forward to being “with” the SON in all HIS glory, someday.

• Do you agree with the way GOD handles things?
• Do you try make situations perfect so you can be with people?
• Will you allow GOD to change your heart so you can agree with how HE handles situations?
• Will you be “with” GOD today in faith instead of being against HIM with your own plans?

Lessons for Readiness

Lessons for Readiness

John 16: “These things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to stumble. ² They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service. ³ And these things they will do to you because they have not known the Father nor Me. ⁴ But these things I have told you, that when the time comes, you may remember that I told you of them.

“And these things I did not say to you at the beginning, because I was with you.

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In the book it said to keep a few stick matches in a dry place. I remembered this when an emergency happened and the leader had to take one of us to the hospital. “Stay here and make a fire in the fire area to stay warm.” They sped off in the rain. I did not have any matches and besides, the wood was wet. I was not ready.

• There were times when I felt unprepared for life.
• There were times when I did not heed the words to get me prepared.
• There were times when I had to go through difficult circumstances in order to be prepared.

JESUS tells HIS disciples four “things” to prepare them. HE did not want HIS disciples to be unprepared for the difficulties they would face. HE does the same for me.

• JESUS wants me to follow HIS commands so I will not stumble.
• JESUS wants me to know that some church leaders will harm me, thinking they are following GOD, but really are not.
• JESUS wants me to understand the HOLY SPIRIT will bring to remembrance what JESUS taught me.
• JESUS wants me to believe that HE is with me always.

Growing up in belief of JESUS can be difficult. I mean sometimes I expect life to be easy, with no problems at all. BUT GOD warns me that problems will come from unexpected places, some that I expect to be safe. As humans try to make sense out of life, mislabeling the symptoms, GOD shines even brighter.

HE strengthens those who follows HIM and prepares us for life’s difficulties. This give me hope and dexterity that would otherwise cause me to crumble and give up. JESUS is my power and I am elated HE fights my battles.

• Do you try things on your own and find yourself in a mess?
• Have you looked at your life and see nothing but problems?
• Will you give your life to JESUS so HE can strengthen you to believe HE will handle your battles?

You are not alone

You are not alone

John 14: ¹⁵ “If you love Me, keep My commandments. ¹⁶ And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— ¹⁷ the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. ¹⁸ I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

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As I walked around the huge crowd at the convention, I felt lonely. Everyone was smiling and laughing and I could not join in on the festivities, because I did not know anyone. Finally someone summoned me over. “Want to get drunk with us?” I went with them just to meet people. There was laughter and flirting. I felt lonelier.

• There have been many times when I felt lonely sitting in a crowd.
• There have been many times when I was around a crowd who were bashing “those” people and I felt lonely for not partaking.
• There have been many times when I sat in groups that were supposed to be talking about GOD, yet they ended up talking about humans, and I felt lonely.

JESUS knew those who follow HIM would be the minority. HE spoke the truth and was about to be killed for it. HE then says to HIS disciples, “The world does not know the SPIRIT of Truth.”  “The FATHER will give you a HELPER” was a promise JESUS made to those who love HIM.

• The HOLY SPIRIT lives in me because I believe I needed to be saved.
• The HOLY SPIRIT begs for forgiveness to the FATHER when I sin.
• The HOLY SPIRIT gives me the words of truth because HE is The TRUTH.

When I had no purpose, the world looked like a “fun” place. Sex, drunkenness, and wealth seemed like a truth I could buy into. BUT GOD wanted something different. HE wants me to speak the real truth about HIS SON.

Though the world my laugh at the words of salvation and ridicule even the very existence of the Most High GOD, I still persist in HIS purpose. At times I may get weary, BUT GOD gave me The HELPER who does not leave or forsake me. I am grateful for the HOLY SPIRIT who comforts me.

• Are you alone?
• Do you believe in GOD while those around you do not?
• Will you draw your power from the HOLY SPIRIT today and keep going on GOD’s plan?

Building a Following

Building a Following

John 12: ³⁰ Jesus answered and said, “This voice did not come because of Me, but for your sake. ³¹ Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out. ³² And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.” ³³ This He said, signifying by what death He would die.

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As I sat in the seat, I could feel it hug me. When I gripped the steering wheel, it felt different than the jalopy I was driving. I was influenced. I have got to have one of these. When I grew older, I noticed some of the owners of this brand of car would lie, cheat and steal regularly. “I wonder if the lifestyle is worth it”, I thought to myself.

• There were times when I felt that nice people finished last.
• There were times when I felt the rich and powerful were “winning.”
• There were times when I felt discouraged by following GOD because it seemed like most of HIS true followers were broke and powerless.

JESUS proclaimed victory over the battle over humanity. All of humanity could be lost “if” JESUS was not murdered on the cross. BUT humanity was not lost. JESUS knew what HE had to do and knew HE was the only one who could draw all peoples to HIMSELF.

• JESUS wants me to follow HIM.
• JESUS wants me to look beyond the things of this world so I can see HIM.
• JESUS desires that I place HIM first then everything else will fall into place.

Being rich is not the problem. But when I gain the whole world and lose my soul, riches become the main problem. In other words, when I will do anything for money, it is the root of all kinds of evil. JESUS knows my needs and knows my limits.

HE knows exactly how much money and power I can handle before I get blinded and think “I” did everything without HIM. I am grateful for JESUS, for without HIM, I am nothing.

• What worldly thing are you chasing?
• Do you seek power, wealth or something else?
• Will you be a servant to those around you so JESUS can “be JESUS” by providing salvation and eternal life to them?