Israel’s Prophecy for Zebulun

 Israel’s Prophecy for Zebulun

Genesis 49: 13 “Zebulun shall dwell by the haven of the sea;
He shall become a haven for ships,
And his border shall adjoin Sidon.

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Not much is said about Zebulun in the Bible. Leah praised GOD for having her sixth son. After Judah, she became barren. Rachel and Leah sent in their handmaids Bilhah and Zilpah. Other children were born. Then came Issachar and Zebulun. Leah was no longer barren.

 

My Observations:

• Israel’s prophecy of Zebulun had to be inspired by the HOLY SPIRIT.
• Zebulun was the tenth son of Jacob and the sixth son of Leah, making him one of the younger of the children.
• Zebulun was closer in age to Joseph and Dinah and may have spent more time with the children of Leah and the Joseph.

 

Zebulun did in fact move close to the sea, fulfilling the prophecy of Israel. This tribe would be known for maritime trade. What is strange is the order Israel chose to present his blessing. Dan, Naphtali, Gad Asher and Issachar were older than Zebulun, yet Israel spoke his name before them.

 

There must have been a special anointing on Zebulun for being mentioned earlier. Israel’s blessing was short and to the point. As brief as this mention was, so is the brevity of mentions in the Bible. But GOD has Zebulun’s name written on a structure in heaven. GOD valued him. HE values you and me.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the prophecy of Zebulun?
• Have you ever felt insignificant?
• Do you know that GOD values you as extremely significant more than you could possibly imagine?

Extra Blessed

Extra Blessed

Genesis 48: ⁸ Then Israel saw Joseph’s sons, and said, “Who are these?”

 

⁹ Joseph said to his father, “They are my sons, whom God has given me in this place.”

 

And he said, “Please bring them to me, and I will bless them.” ¹⁰ Now the eyes of Israel were dim with age, so that he could not see. Then Joseph brought them near him, and he kissed them and embraced them. ¹¹ And Israel said to Joseph, “I had not thought to see your face; but in fact, God has also shown me your offspring!”

 

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Israel saw Joseph’s sons and asked “Who are these?” Joseph introduced his sons to Israel who became delighted! He thought he would never see Joseph again, but now he was able to see Joseph and his sons!

 

My Observations:

• Joseph did not spend a lot of time in Goshen due to his responsibilities of running Egypt.
• Joseph’s sons may have been teenagers by the time they met Israel.
• Israel never imagined he would see Joseph or his sons because he was told Joseph was dead.

 

Not only did he see Joseph alive and well, but he also saw Joseph’s sons. Israel was delighted to have been so blessed. He did not know how GOD’s prophecy would play out. All Israel knew was that GOD would make many nations through his lineage.

 

Now that Joseph showed his sons to him, he could see how GOD was working. He had no idea that GOD had a different lineage through which JESUS would be born. All he knew was that Joseph, his beloved son, had children.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the first meeting of Israel’s grandsons?
• How do you react if a blessing came much later than you thought?
• Can you praise GOD when HE blesses you, especially when HIS timing took longer than you expected?

Unexpected Peace

Unexpected Peace

Genesis 43: ¹⁹ When they drew near to the steward of Joseph’s house, they talked with him at the door of the house, ²⁰ and said, “O sir, we indeed came down the first time to buy food; ²¹ but it happened, when we came to the encampment, that we opened our sacks, and there, each man’s money was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight; so we have brought it back in our hand. ²² And we have brought down other money in our hands to buy food. We do not know who put our money in our sacks.”

 

²³ But he said, “Peace be with you, do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; I had your money.” Then he brought Simeon out to them.

 

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Nervously, the brothers of Joseph explained to the steward of the house that their money had been placed in their sacks. The steward of the house said “Peace be with you, do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; I had your money.”

 

My Observations:

• Joseph must have told the steward of the house about GOD and may have revealed that he believes in the one and only GOD.
• The steward of the house recognized that Joseph’s brothers were blessed through Joseph’s belief in GOD.
• The steward of the house comforted Joseph’s brothers by saying “Your GOD and the GOD of your father has given you treasure in your sacks.”

 

Referencing GOD as the one who put the treasure in the sacks could be seen as strange, especially as spoken by an Egyptian. The steward of the house was not calling himself GOD, yet he knew he placed the money into the sack. He was speaking of something greater than his action, namely the moving of the SPIRIT of GOD.

 

Joseph’s brothers did not deserve favor. They finally told the truth and were willing to face the consequences. But little did they know that GOD was blessing them through Joseph. They expected jail or even death, BUT GOD gave them peace for the moment.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about what the steward of the house told Joseph’s brothers?
• Have you ever expected the worst and was given the best?
• Do you know GOD can’t wait to bless you but HE has a specific time for it?

Protection Program

Protection Program

Genesis 28: Then Isaac called Jacob and blessed him, and charged him, and said to him: “You shall not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan. ² Arise, go to Padan Aram, to the house of Bethuel your mother’s father; and take yourself a wife from there of the daughters of Laban your mother’s brother.

³ “May God Almighty bless you,

And make you fruitful and multiply you,

That you may be an assembly of peoples;

⁴ And give you the blessing of Abraham,

To you and your descendants with you,

That you may inherit the land

In which you are a stranger,

Which God gave to Abraham.”

⁵ So Isaac sent Jacob away, and he went to Padan Aram, to Laban the son of Bethuel the Syrian, the brother of Rebekah, the mother of Jacob and Esau.

 

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Isaac was aware that Jacob had lied and stolen Esau’s blessing. But it was too late. He did not want Jacob to marry a Hittite woman, known as the daughters of Canaan. He sent Jacob away.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac blessed Jacob again, asking GOD to make him fruitful and multiply him.
• Isaac blessed Jacob with the ability to gather people.
• Isaac blessed Jacob with the blessing of his father Abraham, which came directly from GOD.

 

Undeservingly, Jacob accepted the blessing and went to Rebekah’s brother Laban. GOD was clear that Laban was Rebakah’s relative. HE was also clear that Rebekah was the mother of Jacob and Esau.  This is the first time their names are mentioned together and Jacob’s name is mentioned first.

 

Jacob is being sent away, similar to a witness protection program of today. Isaac wanted him to marry someone from His father’s lineage. Rebekah wanted Jacob protected from Esau. GOD saw the entire plan and allowed Jacob to be protected.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think Isaac blessed Jacob, knowing he made a mistake?
• Have you ever been protected in the middle of your sins?
• Can you praise GOD for HIS protection because HE sees, knows and forgives your sins?

A Thorough Blessing

A Thorough Blessing

Genesis 27: ²⁵ He said, “Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son’s game, so that my soul may bless you.” So he brought it near to him, and he ate; and he brought him wine, and he drank. ²⁶ Then his father Isaac said to him, “Come near now and kiss me, my son.” ²⁷ And he came near and kissed him; and he smelled the smell of his clothing, and blessed him and said:

 

“Surely, the smell of my son
Is like the smell of a field
Which the Lord has blessed.
²⁸ Therefore may God give you
Of the dew of heaven,
Of the fatness of the earth,
And plenty of grain and wine.
²⁹ Let peoples serve you,
And nations bow down to you.
Be master over your brethren,
And let your mother’s sons bow down to you.
Cursed be everyone who curses you,
And blessed be those who bless you!”

 

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After eating the food Rebekah made, Isaac smelled Jacob and determined that it must be Esau whom he was blessing. He gave Jacob a thorough blessing.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac blessed Jacob with plenty.
• Isaac blessed Jacob with protection.
• Isaac blessed Jacob with people.

 

Jacob’s deception gave him the blessing he was looking for. This blessing was not taken lightly. It included GOD providing plenty, protection and people to Jacob. This blessing was binding, meaning GOD would agree with the terms.

 

HE already knew HE was going to bless Jacob in this way, anyway. Isaac’s blessing needed to be said to everyone so they understood who was supposed to receive the blessing. The blessing was given.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Jacob’s deception to get the blessing?
• Have you ever been blessed undeservedly?
• Will you praise GOD for the undeserved blessings HE provides to you?

Saved by Presence

Saved by Presence

Genesis 19: ¹⁸ Then Lot said to them, “Please, no, my lords! ¹⁹ Indeed now, your servant has found favor in your sight, and you have increased your mercy which you have shown me by saving my life; but I cannot escape to the mountains, lest some evil overtake me and I die. ²⁰ See now, this city is near enough to flee to, and it is a little one; please let me escape there (is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live.”

 

²¹ And he said to him, “See, I have favored you concerning this thing also, in that I will not overthrow this city for which you have spoken. ²² Hurry, escape there. For I cannot do anything until you arrive there.”

 

Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.

 

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After being told to “Escape to the mountains”, realized what the angels were saying. He understood that Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding suburbs would be destroyed. He thought quickly and asked to go to a nearby little city. The angel granted his passage to this city and would not destroy it.

 

My Observations:

• Lot’s presence in the little city saved everyone there from destruction.
• Lot knew the area well, possibly because of skills he learned from the Chaldeans, or Abraham or Terah.
• Lot was afraid of the people who captured him years prior and did not want to take a chance of running into them again.

 

Lot and his family were allowed to go to the small city that did not have a name. Lot named it Zoar, meaning small or insignificant. GOD would protect this small group of people because of Lot. GOD still does this. By this example, HE does not destroy places where HE has a believer, unless HE urges them out.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about this conversation between Lot and the angel?
• Have you ever wondered why you are in a certain place?
• Can you realize that your presence in a place blesses it because of GOD’s favor on you?

Faith to Blessing

Faith to Blessing

Genesis 12: Now the Lord had said to Abram:

 

“Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.
² I will make you a great nation;
I will bless you
And make your name great;
And you shall be a blessing.
³ I will bless those who bless you,
And I will curse him who curses you;
And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

 

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After years of being in Haran, Terah, Abram’s father, died. Teran had learned many things from the Chaldeans and had possibly amassed great wealth. He may have taught Abram how to take care of this vast empire. But now Abram saw his father pass away. He may have remembered how sad his father got when thinking about the son he lost.

 

Before Abram had time to think about sadness of the loss of his father, GOD spoke to him.

 

My Observations:

• Abram seemed to be following GOD from his youth.
• GOD had a plan that would be fulfilled through Abram, so HE promised to protect him.
• GOD had to tell Abram not to settle for what he had, where he had it, but to leave and focus on HIS blessing.

 

It would have been easy for Abram to stay where he was and to fall into sadness like his father did. BUT GOD had a plan for Abram that would bless “all families: that were “in” him. He had to leave his father’s house without worrying about where he would live.

 

He may have been comfortable with settling with being unknown, BUT GOD wanted him known for HIS purpose. Other people sought greatness, BUT GOD sought Abram and made him great. Because of Abram’s belief in GOD’s ways from the passed down stories of Shem through Terah; Abram had greater faith than his ancestors. GOD clearly saw something different and blessed him.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the blessing HE bestowed on Abram?
• Have you gotten settled where you are, doing the same thing that you have been doing?
• Are you open to GOD moving you to do something different, so HIS plan can be fulfilled through you?

Closer to the Garden

Closer to the Garden

Genesis 4: ²⁵ And Adam knew his wife again, and she bore a son and named him Seth, “For God has appointed another seed for me instead of Abel, whom Cain killed.” ²⁶ And as for Seth, to him also a son was born; and he named him Enosh. Then men began to call on the name of the Lord.

 

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With paradise lost, grief filled the land. Adam and Eve may have stayed near the garden in hopes that maybe it would be reopened. But the cherubim that GOD placed in front of the entrance would not budge. To top it all off, their son killed their other son. Years passed and Adam and Eve had another son.

 

My Observations:

• GOD had another path to HIS salvation.
• GOD chose sinners to execute HIS plan.
• Anyone who calls on the name of the LORD will not be put to shame.

 

Cain’s family left GOD and became extremely resourceful. On the other hand, Adam and Eve’s family acknowledged GOD by saying “GOD has appointed another seed.” Two paths were being defined in humanity. One that would follow human accomplishments, and one who would worship GOD, asking for help at every turn.

 

No curse was placed on Seth, rather the announcement of his birth was significant. It’s not that his siblings were insignificant, rather Seth’s birth would contain the family from which JESUS would choose to come in the form of a human. Although I believe it was JESUS who walked in the garden, I also believe JESUS was born through a line of humans.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD tells Moses about Adam’s statement?
• Have you ever been curious about your family tree?
• Have you considered how special you are to GOD?

In Spite Of

 

In Spite Of

Hebrews 11: ²⁰ It was faith that made Isaac promise blessings for the future to Jacob and Esau.

 

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“I don’t know how to do this” was my statement to a person who was building a team. “Don’t worry about that” was his reply to my concern. I had not lead a team as large as he was going to place me over and I was concerned that I could fail. “Don’t worry” was his reply.

 

• I did not know I was being watched over.
• I did not know that it was not about “my” performance rather that I was part of something bigger.
• I did not know that it was not about “my” abilities, rather it was much greater than me.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gave another example of faith that was a continuation of Abraham’s blessing. He briefly mentioned Isaac, possibly due to the fact that people referred to him in a revered way. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were an imperfect human shadow of the trinity of GOD. They were used in spite of their imperfections.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac was part of the promise made to Abraham, so even if he made mistakes, he was blessed.
• GOD promised Abraham that his descendants would be blessed and as numerous as sand or stars.
• GOD sees my sins and still uses me, in spite of my sins.

 

Imperfect people doing imperfect things to birth perfection seems impossible. I mean, lies, deception and hurt were the makeup of the family of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The whole story seemed quite messed up. Yet GOD blessed them in spite of them. HIS blessings could not be stopped by their sins.

 

GOD saw what they would do and say and had a purpose for humanity, namely the birth of JESUS. HE somehow wants to use imperfect people to tell HIS perfect story of redemption. I am glad I do not have to be perfect and that GOD can use me in spite of my sins.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use this example?
• Have you ever thought you needed to be perfect or sinless or that GOD thinks less of you?
• Will you stop focusing on yourself and focus on GOD’s love so HE can show you HIS power through you today?

Destruction Restored

Nahum 2: ² The Lord will restore the splendor of Jacob
    like the splendor of Israel,
though destroyers have laid them waste
    and have ruined their vines.

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“My life is ruined!” I thought to myself. I had a new pair of pants and the pen in my pocket “flooded” and drained all throughout the fabric. I had to deal with the humiliation all day, which was about five hours or so!

“My life is ruined!” I thought to myself when I was in a head on collision. Not making much money, I did not have enough to buy another car. I had to resort to walking a mile and a half to work!

• There were times when I thought “my life is ruined” because I lost something I deemed as special.
• There were times when I believed “this is the end” when something was taken out of my hands.
• There were times when I felt “Everything is falling apart” when something I wanted was not achieved.

From music collections to money, I have had things stolen, lost and destroyed. When I lost five dollars before going into the amusement park I cried like a child, because I was a child. In fact, even when I got older I was childish in response to the stuff that was now gone. What should I do?

• GOD says to me “The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.”
• GOD says to me “You cannot serve money and ME.”
• GOD says to me “Give everything to ME and all will be well with you.”

By giving everything to GOD I noticed I did not mind “as much” if HE took whatever “it” was away. “It” is all HIS anyway. Job said “The LORD gives and the LORD takes away; blessed be the name of the LORD” and this is true. I cannot say it does not hurt to lose stuff, but I can say that I do not have to stay in mourning over the lost stuff long.

GOD says “I will restore your splendor” which means I have splendor in the first place. HE enjoys picking me up, dusting me off and placing me in a high place that I never would have expected. GOD’s plan is incredibly wonderful for me. I do not have to fret over “stuff” very long.

• Are you crying over something you lost or was stolen from you?
• Do you feel like everything is ruined now that you don’t have the income, house or car?
• Can you stop looking at the stuff for a moment and look at GOD?
• Will you allow HIM to restore you to the splendor HE made you with today?  

Think Bigger

Ezekiel 38: ²² I will execute judgment on him with plague and bloodshed; I will pour down torrents of rain, hailstones and burning sulfur on him and on his troops and on the many nations with him. ²³ And so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord.

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“I hope my running-back gets more yards than my opponent” was my prayer. Fantasy football was extremely fun to play and I got into it. My coworkers got me involved and it was a sign of being accepted. Praying for running-backs is probably okay, but looking back, I wonder what I would pray for if I only had a few breaths left in my body.

• GOD is concerned with minor things in my life as well as major things.
• GOD is concerned about growing me up to think more like HIM and to see those around me.
• GOD is opening up my eyes to not just getting stuff but being who HE want me to be.

From lost car keys to loss of life, GOD wants my prayer. BUT GOD wants me to know HE is in control of nations, this planet and this universe. One reason is when I face situations and think there is no way out, HE wants me to know that HE is bigger than anything I can go through.

• I can trust GOD because HE does exactly what HE says.
• I can trust GOD because HE is the only one who can keep a promise.
• I can trust GOD because HE is the first and the last.

GOD says “I WILL make MYSELF known in the sight of many nations.” HE will one day pour out wrath that has never been measured. The problem for humans is it will be too late. GOD would prefer that I come to HIM willingly rather than having to go through calamity in order to seek HIM. GOD is much larger than anything I can face. I only need to turn to HIM.

• Have you thought so little of GOD that you think HE cannot solve what you are going through?
• Are your words full of blame and doubt?
• Can you seek the LORD first and allow HIM to rule in your life?
• Will you allow GOD to open your eyes to HIS greatness?

Plans to Prosper You

Jeremiah 29: ⁷ Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

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¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ¹⁴ I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.

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“Instantly rich” was the temptation I fell into one time. I mean it only cost one dollar, so I bought two. Since this was my first time I sat in front of the television waiting intently. I wrote each number on the Lottery Ticket and noticed something rather peculiar. Each number was exactly one number higher or lower than the ones I chose. What are the odds?

• Money can have me bow down to it.
• Money can make me go to an extreme for it.
• Money can place me in a position where I worry about, crave it, and lose relationships over it.

GOD said “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil” and I can see why. For years I have heard this passage of scripture in Jeremiah point to human wealth and lust fulfilment. “Prosperity is my birthright” bumper stickers paved the way to thinking GOD doesn’t mind if I am filled with greed. BUT GOD says different.

• GOD wants me to prosper financially only if it furthers HIS kingdom.
• GOD wants me to prosper financially only if I can remain in prayer to HIM.
• GOD wants me to prosper financially only if I can seek HIM with all my heart.

I missed the part where GOD wanted me to pray for peace and prosperity of the city where I was exiled. In fact I had a disdain for that city where I purchased the Lottery Tickets. I wanted out and had no prayer for anyone there. No wonder I lost two dollars. My attitude towards my neighbors will show how prosperous GOD will make me. The more they prosper because GOD blesses them, the more I will prosper.

• Are you in a tight bind?
• Does it feel like you do not have enough money?
• Can you stop focusing on money and focus on how GOD is blessing you?
• Will you allow GOD to return you from exile?
• Can you pray for your neighbors and your city, asking for peace and prosperity?

Peace in the Desert

Isaiah 32: ¹⁶ The Lord’s justice will dwell in the desert,
    his righteousness live in the fertile field.
¹⁷ The fruit of that righteousness will be peace;
    its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.
¹⁸ My people will live in peaceful dwelling places,
    in secure homes,
    in undisturbed places of rest.
¹⁹ Though hail flattens the forest
    and the city is leveled completely,
²⁰ how blessed you will be,
    sowing your seed by every stream,
    and letting your cattle and donkeys range free.

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Silence was the strangest sound I heard after being released from the high paced position that was eliminated in the reorganization. With no conference calls or fires to put out or people complaining about sagging profits, I felt strange. There was actually enough quiet to listen.

• There were times when my pace was so noisy that I could not hear.
• There were times when I did not have time to stop and listen.
• There were times when I had not time to listen to GOD.

“The Desert” is a symbolic place for me. I mean the Israelites were glad to leave Egypt because they were under someone’s forceful hand. But then they found themselves in “The Desert” and that felt even worse to them. No heavy hand, but no crumbs from the “master’s” plate. When I sat down for the first time with no appointments, at first it felt great, but weeks later I wondered, “Where is GOD?”

• GOD said to me “MY justice is in the desert which is right where I want you now.”
• GOD said to me “MY righteousness lives in the fertile field and I want you to seek out this field.”
• GOD said to me “MY reward to you will be peace and you will have quietness and confidence forever.”

It took some time to get used to the quietness. I learned to use it as lost time I had not spent with GOD, family and friends. I found the fruit GOD wanted me to seek in the first place and HE blessed me the entire time. GOD truly is great!

• Are you in “The Desert?”
• Do you feel lost?
• Can you quiet down and listen to GOD?
• Will you seek HIS guidance instead of yours?

Work Hard

Proverbs 12: ¹⁴ From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things,
    and the work of their hands brings them reward.

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After hanging out all night, I felt it necessary to get my rest. I mean I went to bed around 2:30AM and had to be at work downtown at 7:00AM. Since I did not have much money I had to be there earlier because there were three parking meters that were missing and I could park all day for free if I got one of them. I stumbled in at 6:30AM, chose my favorite stall in the restroom and went to sleep.

• There were times where my work ethic was not high.
• There were times when my thoughts about work were of lower priority.
• There were times that I stole time from work doing my own thing.

Immaturity made me think the world owed something to me. I mean can’t “they” understand that I am young, single and full of life? They must understand that I “need” to be out late to grow my social skills, right? Wrong!

• GOD wants me to be diligent in the work HE has given me.
• GOD wants me to produce for whoever I work for, even if they are a “bad” boss.
• GOD wants me to work as unto HIM even thought I may not like the job.

My attitude had to change, fast! GOD changed my heart towards work and enabled me to mature. HE gave me praise on my lips about jobs and showed me HIS might. GOD give me my reward for my positive attitude.

• Are you complaining about your job?
• Do you think your job owes you something?
• Will you start praising GOD about your job instead of complaining?
• Will you become more diligent about working because you are working for GOD?

Monetary Blessings are Nice

Proverbs 10: ²² The blessing of the Lord brings wealth,
    without painful toil for it.

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Cold had snuck up on me so I pulled out a jacket I hadn’t worn since the prior season. When I stuck my hand in the pocket I found a nice crisp five dollar bill. Another time I was walking to my car in the parking lot of my local grocery store when suddenly a wind blew several one dollar bills around. I looked for the person who lost them and there was no one in the parking lot. I picked them up and went on my merry way.

• Sometimes GOD has surprised me with money I didn’t expect.
• Sometimes GOD has given me money I was not looking for.
• Sometimes GOD has blessed me with wealth I did not imagine.

GOD is capable of blessing me with tremendous amounts of wealth, but am I ready for it? I mean HE said, “The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” Should I “look” for monetary blessings?

• GOD says to me “Use your wealth to bless others and I will never leave you wanting.”
• GOD says to me “Bless others as I have blessed you.”
• GOD says to me “When I do bless you with wealth, do not hide where it came from.”

There is no such thing as a “self-made” person. GOD gives and HE takes away. HE isn’t a bookie who wants HIS cut. HE wants sacrifice to HIM and to others. GOD blesses me as HE wishes and I praise HIM for it.

• Are you asking GOD for money?
• Do you feel the squeeze of life on you?
• Will you ask GOD to open your eyes to other blessings HE is doing for you in order to get your relationship with HIM straightened out first?

Can’t We All Just Get Along!

Psalm 133: ¹ How good and pleasant it is
    when God’s people live together in unity!

² It is like precious oil poured on the head,
    running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
    down on the collar of his robe.
³ It is as if the dew of Hermon
    were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the Lord bestows his blessing,
    even life forevermore.

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Dream Team was our nickname. I have only experienced it once. We had a very large assignment and each person had a role. One person brought in their talents and I brought mine. We worked hard together and we created one of the best things anyone had seen. It was innovative, fresh and exciting!

• When I promote unity, a lot can get done.
• When I promote unity, my defense becomes offense.
• When I promote unity, I ask more questions rather than block negative comments.

In a world of dwindling unity I can get discouraged. I mean at one time communities of people would pull together in adversarial times, now it seems that if I am not the right “label” then I will not fit in. GOD says to act different.

• GOD wants me to act with unity no matter if those around me are not.
• GOD wants me to act with unity encouraging people and building them up.
• GOD wants me to act with unity showing people what “can” happen if we work together.

Blessings flow to those who can cross many boundaries with unity. GOD wants me to see more than my block or my city or even my country. HE wants me to see that every human should have a single goal, namely to praise JESUS who died for all of us. As I have said many times, “We are all in the mud, throwing mud at each other saying you have mud on your face.”

GOD wants me to put down my mud, wash my hands with the cleansing sacrificed blood of JESUS the living CHRIST, and reach out to help people out of the mud. We should all act as if JESUS’ return is imminent. Unity is the key to blessings so HE wants me to be the first to reach out my hand.

• Are you at odds with “those” people?
• Do you feel “they” caused you problems?
• Will you stop pursuing to be in power and start seeking how to put GOD in power?
• Will you drop your slanderous words and speak only about yourself?
• Can you start acting with unity today and not hold back great plans, even from the thief

Where it all starts

Psalm 128: ¹ Blessed are all who fear the Lord,
    who walk in obedience to him.
² You will eat the fruit of your labor;
    blessings and prosperity will be yours.
³ Your wife will be like a fruitful vine
    within your house;
your children will be like olive shoots
    around your table.
⁴ Yes, this will be the blessing
    for the man who fears the Lord.

⁵ May the Lord bless you from Zion;
    may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem
    all the days of your life.
⁶ May you live to see your children’s children—
    peace be on Israel.

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Zero words, zero advice came from my high school counselor, but I never asked the right question. I was told to “Go to college” so I did because I feared the future. No direction, no roadmap came from the college I graduated from, but I never asked for help. I was told by others to “Dress for success” and to be impressive in the interview, so I did because I feared not getting the job.

• Fear has driven many of my decisions.
• Fear has driven many of my questions about life.
• Fear has driven many of my mistakes and successes.

Blame was the first thought that came to mind when it came to a direction I chose. I mean, why wasn’t someone put in my path to simply tell me what to do so my fears would be taken care of? Some paths I chose felt right while others felt dreadfully wrong. Where does true success come from?

• GOD tells me “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.”
• GOD says to me “Blessed are all who fear the LORD.”
• GOD states “Do not fear those who can hurt the body but cannot hurt the soul. Fear the ONE who can destroy the soul.”

Fear of GOD means I need to hold HIM in the highest regard. HE needs to be number one in my life no matter what goes on around me. HE gets praise first and my plans need to be placed in front of HIM before I move forward. HIS direction, HIS path and HIS timing are all great in my mind and my fear needs to be channeled to pleasing HIM.

GOD is not needy or mean. HE simply wants me to stay away from anything that isn’t of HIM. Instead of fearing “stuff” I need to fear the LORD, this is the beginning of GOD’s blessing.

• Do you have fear in your life?
• Do your fears seem greater than your fear of GOD?
• Can you stop blaming GOD without fearing HIS consequence of complaining?
• Will you fear GOD today by seeking HIM first?

How to Act

Psalm 112: ¹ Praise the Lord.

Blessed are those who fear the Lord,
    who find great delight in his commands.

² Their children will be mighty in the land;
    the generation of the upright will be blessed.
³ Wealth and riches are in their houses,
    and their righteousness endures forever.
⁴ Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
    for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous.
⁵ Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely,
    who conduct their affairs with justice.

⁶ Surely the righteous will never be shaken;
    they will be remembered forever.
⁷ They will have no fear of bad news;
    their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
⁸ Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear;
    in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.

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Exhausted was how I felt as I walked in the door of the church. I felt I was in round four of a twelve round boxing match against life and my corner refused to throw in the towel. The announcements came at me like daggers as I heard give more time, talent and treasures. Then others asked for help and I had none to give.

• Sometimes I think GOD is too demanding.
• Sometimes I think following GOD is too difficult.
• Sometimes I think GOD set up ridiculous rules so I can fail and then HE can pounce on my every mistake.

When I examine the source of these thoughts I realize they are a mix of the enemy and my own sin nature. I am glad GOD has given us a method to fight against tempting thoughts and crazy feelings.

• GOD wants me to praise HIM in order to overcome my situation for praise of GOD weakens any attack.
• GOD wants me to fear the LORD because only HE holds the future rather than any person or thing I worry about.
• GOD wants me to find delight in HIS commands even when I cannot keep them because it makes HIS SON’s death and resurrection more valuable to me.

It’s amazing that GOD only wants small items and sometimes I think HE wants me to build skyscrapers in some country and irrigate the desert. GOD wants me to stop trying to get my way and simply praise HIM, fear HIM and delight in HIM all of which are free and easy to do. 

One promise that stood out today was “they will have no fear of bad news” which means I could have bad news but my trust needs to be in GOD. Aligning to GOD is always the best way to act!

• Are you on the brink of giving up?
• Do you think GOD has forgotten you?
• Can you stop thinking negative thoughts and go see a different set of positive people?

Hearing When the Noise is Loud

Psalm 104: ²⁷ All creatures look to you
    to give them their food at the proper time.
²⁸ When you give it to them,
    they gather it up;
when you open your hand,
    they are satisfied with good things.
²⁹ When you hide your face,
    they are terrified;
when you take away their breath,
    they die and return to the dust.
³⁰ When you send your Spirit,
    they are created,
    and you renew the face of the ground.

³¹ May the glory of the Lord endure forever;
    may the Lord rejoice in his works—
³² he who looks at the earth, and it trembles,
    who touches the mountains, and they smoke.

³³ I will sing to the Lord all my life;
    I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
³⁴ May my meditation be pleasing to him,
    as I rejoice in the Lord.

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“Hurry, we have to get to the airport on time” were the motivating words out of my mouth that I barked at my team. Barely getting there on time, my heart raced as I got into the routine of shoe removal and laptop stacking in the security line. I quickly sized up the other travelers and noticed a person fumbling to remove their belt.

I quickly dashed into another line and looked incessantly at my watch, hoping to speed up the security screeners. I plopped in my seat and immediately went to sleep not noticing anyone around me.

• Sometimes the noise of life makes me not notice my surroundings.
• Sometimes the noise of life drowns out quiet sounds.
• Sometimes the noise of life keeps me on edge to the point where nothing else fits.

It’s hard to see GOD at work when the attendant doesn’t have my reservation and I may be late for an important meeting. Birds, what birds? What do they have to do with me? I, late! BUT GOD wants me to hear HIM.

• GOD provides food for the birds and wants me to slow down to notice HE takes care of them and me.
• GOD made the mountains and waters the field and wants me to know HE cares for me in spite of what’s going on around me.
• GOD sustains and gives at the proper time and wants me to understand HIS time is wonderful.

Slow down instead of speeding up. Stop looking at the watch or calendar and look out at the bird hopping in the field is what HE says to me. HIS eye is on the sparrow and I know HE watches over me.

• Are you deafened by your circumstance?
• Have you gotten to the point where you cannot hear or see GOD working?
• Can you stop looking at your watch or calendar and see HIM today?
• Will you listen to HIS voice by slowing down for just a minute?

A Prayer for Those with Financial Woes

Psalm 4: ⁶ Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?”
    Let the light of your face shine on us.
⁷ Fill my heart with joy
    when their grain and new wine abound.

⁸ In peace I will lie down and sleep,
    for you alone, Lord,
    make me dwell in safety.

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Dear LORD,

            I know many who are hurting and are in dire straits.

I know many who are struggling and desire to turn their hearts to YOU.

            I know many who used their last dime a long time ago.

I know many who cry out to YOU daily.

            LORD please fill their coffers with YOUR wealth.

Let their hearts abound with YOUR grace.

            “Let the light of YOUR face shine on us.”

Fill our hearts with joy when their grain and new wine abound.

amen